If you’re trying to maintain strong and healthy pearly whites, then you might want to know there’s more to it than brushing and flossing. Most people tend to snack on their favorite foods without much thought about their teeth. But did you know that some snacks can actually easily damage your enamel? Keep reading to learn four foods that can chip teeth and how you can prevent a dental emergency.
Food #1: Nuts
You’ve likely heard that nuts are both tasty and nutritious. However, their sheer toughness can be enough to easily harm your teeth in the long run. The more you eat these hard snacks, the more you’ll notice the edges of your teeth wearing down or becoming thinner. You might want to consider limiting how often you eat nuts, especially those with shells. These can become problematic if their casings become lodged between your teeth or gums, which can cause irritation or inflammation.
Food #2: Popcorn
If you love going to the movies, then you probably enjoy snacking on the buttery popcorn during your flick. Unfortunately, the hardest pieces are the popcorn kernels, which can be surprisingly tough if you bite down on them. You could potentially bruise, crack, or even fracture the tooth, and if it breaks it becomes vulnerable to exposing the nerves. Should this happen, you may require a root canal to save it.
Food #3: Hard Candy
While most candies are delicious and sweet, the tough ones can do some serious damage. Hard candies, like the jawbreakers, are meant to be held in the mouth for long periods of time. The last thing you want to do is bite into it! You can enjoy your favorite treats, but be sure to keep your pearly whites safe from damage and cavities.
Food #4: Nutrition Bars
If you’re starting a new diet and trying to eat healthier, then nutrition bars are likely your go-to snacks. While these may be nourishing, they contain nuts, dried fruits, and granola, which can all damage your teeth. Additionally, some bars contain sticky ingredients like honey to hold the shape of the bar together. If you ever bite into a nutrition bar and notice strange tooth sensitivity, then you should definitely call your dentist in case of a developing issue.
Many of these foods can be nice on-the-go snacks or tasty treats, but you should be careful when munching on the tough kind. Also consult your dentist if you have concerns about which meals are safe to eat. By doing so, you can lower your risk of a dental emergency and continue to enjoy a strong and healthy smile!
About the Practice
At Atrium Family Dental, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality dental care with the utmost comfort. Whether you’re wanting to rebuild or maintain your pearly whites, we have advanced technology to treat your dental needs. If you have questions about other foods that can chip teeth, don’t hesitate to check out our website or calls us at 815-462-9990.