The holidays make multitaskers of us all. Between wrapping packages, opening packages, trimming décor, prepping food, eating, and rushing through all manner of other minor tasks at once, it’s not uncommon to see people slip into a surprisingly common (and potentially costly) habit of using their teeth as tools.
Whether you’re tearing tape, opening a bottle, or cracking a nut, your teeth are never the right instrument. And during a season filled with hard candies, gift wrapping, and celebrations, there’s no reason to take extra risks.
How Holiday Habits Lead to Tooth Damage
Teeth are strong, but they’re not designed for sideways pressure, twisting, or force applied at odd angles. Biting down on non-food items can instantly crack enamel, chip edges, or even cause a tooth to fracture below the gumline. For adults with existing dental work like veneers, crowns, and bonding, these risks are even higher.
Holiday-specific damage often comes from:
- Tearing open ribbon, bags, or packaging
- Cracking nutshells
- Using teeth to hold objects when hands are full
- Opening bottles
- Chewing on pens or tape during gift wrapping stress
A single bad moment can lead to costly (both in time and money) emergency dentistry, sensitivity that lingers for months, and even long-term structural damage.
Better, Safer Substitutes for Holiday Tasks
Fortunately, every task your teeth seem useful for has a safer alternative. Keep a small “holiday toolkit” nearby: scissors, a multipurpose opener, a bottle opener, and nutcracker. At gatherings, place openers where guests can see them so no one instinctively reaches for their teeth.
If you feel your jaw “taking over” during stress, pause. Many people bite objects not because they need to, but because tension turns into clenching and absent-minded chewing. Fortunately, mindfulness goes a long way in helping prevent this dental damage.
What to Do If a Holiday Mishap Happens
If you chip or crack a tooth, don’t wait for January. Early care can prevent deeper fractures, root damage, or infection. Dr. Albert Luan and the Golden Coast Dental Care team offer same-week appointments and modern restorative options that blend strength with natural aesthetics.
Protective, Comfort-Focused Holiday Dentistry in Long Beach, CA
If you’re in Long Beach and want to learn more about preventing holiday dental injuries and keeping your smile safe this festive season, contact Dr. Luan and the excellent Golden Coast Dental Care team to schedule a consultation.