Dentists are polite professionals. They’ll smile, clean your teeth, and gently recommend flossing—again. But there are a few things they really wish you’d stop doing, especially if you want to keep your teeth (and dental bills) in check.

At Canyon Gate Dental in Orem, Utah, we’ve seen the same bad habits over and over. So, we’re pulling back the curtain and being brutally honest—for your benefit.

1. Skipping Dental Cleanings Until Something Hurts

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This is at the top of every dentist’s silent frustration list. Waiting until pain hits means the problem is already advanced—and usually more expensive to treat.

Instead: Book your cleanings every 6 months to catch issues early. At Canyon Gate Dental, we make it easy to stay on schedule with reminders and flexible Orem appointment slots.

2. Lying About Flossing

Your gums don’t lie. Bleeding and tartar buildup tell us everything. We get it—flossing can be tedious, but it’s the fastest way to avoid gum disease and bad breath.

Instead: Try floss picks, water flossers, or keep floss visible near your sink. Just floss once a day—we’ll notice the difference.

3. Using Teeth as Tools

Opening packages or cracking nuts with your teeth? You’re asking for cracks, chips, or worse. Enamel is strong, but not indestructible.

Instead: Keep scissors or a bottle opener handy and let your teeth stick to chewing (not tearing open Amazon boxes).

4. Chewing Ice Like It’s a Snack

It’s just frozen water, right? Wrong. Ice is a top offender in cracked fillings and fractured molars.

Instead: If you’re craving crunch, opt for apple slices or carrots. Chewing ice can turn a healthy smile into an emergency visit.

5. Ignoring That Bleeding Gum “Just This Once”

If your gums bleed when you brush, it’s not normal. It’s often the first sign of gingivitis or inflammation—and it won’t fix itself.

Instead: Schedule a deep cleaning. Bleeding gums are reversible when caught early.

6. Believing TikTok Dental Trends Are Legit

From lemon juice whitening to DIY braces, these hacks are viral for the wrong reasons.
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Many cause permanent damage, and fixing it is way more expensive than just doing it right.

Instead: Always consult a licensed professional before trying anything that involves your teeth.

7. Smoking or Vaping and Pretending It Doesn’t Affect Your Mouth

Nicotine stains your teeth, damages gum tissue, and increases your risk for oral cancer. Vaping isn’t a safer option—it’s just differently harmful.

Instead: If you’re working to quit, let us know. We can recommend products that protect your teeth during the process.

8. Brushing Too Hard or With the Wrong Brush

Hard bristles don’t equal better cleaning—they strip enamel and irritate gums.
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Instead: Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions. Electric toothbrushes do the hard work for you (without harming your gums).

9. Grinding at Night and Not Getting a Night Guard

Grinding wears down your teeth like sandpaper. You might not notice it—but we can see the damage.

Instead: Ask us about custom night guards that protect your bite and jaw while you sleep.

10. Skipping Your Dental X-rays

X-rays help us see what’s below the surface—including infections, bone loss, and cavities between teeth.
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Instead: Don’t skip them. We’ll only recommend them when truly necessary—and they could save you from major treatment later.

It’s Not About Guilt—It’s About Prevention

No one’s perfect. But knowing these top dental no-nos gives you the power to protect your smile—and your wallet. At Canyon Gate Dental in Orem, we’d much rather help you prevent a problem than fix one.

Cleanings, exams, night guards, whitening—we’ve got all the tools to keep your teeth healthy for the long haul.

FAQs: What Dentists Wish You’d Stop Doing

Q: How bad is it to skip flossing?
A: Skipping flossing allows plaque to build between teeth, which leads to cavities and gum disease. Once a day makes a big difference.

Q: Is it OK to wait until I have tooth pain?
A: No. Pain usually means the issue is already serious. Regular checkups help you avoid that situation altogether.

Q: Can I whiten my teeth naturally at home?
A: Many “natural” methods are abrasive or acidic and can harm your enamel. We recommend safe, professional whitening options in Orem.

Q: Do I really need a night guard?
A: If you’re grinding your teeth, yes. Night guards prevent serious wear, fractures, and TMJ discomfort.