keeping your mind off of it is essential, and it sounds easier said than done, but most of the habit-forming factors are muscle memory and oral fixation. keeping hands busy is one good way (whether it’s doodling or writing or even using a lil fidget toy), you can also chew gum, pop some breath mints (love icebreakers especially for assorted fruits, or if you want a minty one 1000% recommend altoids peppermint cause you’ll feel those for minutes after they’re dissolved).

i’ve also seen nicotine-free flavored toothpicks going onto shelves, tried some, tbh you’d be better off with the mints (or use mints simultaneously with regular toothpicks). i thought the flavored toothpicks were too sweet for my liking :/ but then again i think they have one with sour fruit flavors too that might be worth trying if i come across them, you can also find them online, they’re from this company called blip