Known as the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body, capable of handling up to 200 pounds of force. But although they are strong, your pearly whites aren’t completely indestructible, and many foods that may be a regular staple in your diet can even cause them to chip or break. Here’s a closer look at some foods that are dangerous for your smile, so you can avoid damaging dental emergencies before it’s too late!
Hard Candy
Hard candies are nice because they allow you to enjoy a boost of sugar without having to consume a ton of calories, use a utensil, or have the time or space to enjoy a meal. But while they do taste great and have convenience on their side, they can be extremely dangerous for your teeth, especially if you crunch on them. Worse yet, repeated consumption can wear down teeth and can even increase your risk of cavities by coating them with sugar!
Ice
Eating ice may seem like a great way to cool down on a hot day, but even though it’s only water, it can still put your teeth at risk, as chewing it can damage your enamel. While there are certainly safer freezing methods that make crunching ice less risky for your smile, it is better to simply drink water in liquid form. Furthermore, it is important to note that frequent ice eating could indicate a mineral deficiency, so you may want to mention it to your doctor if you constantly crave crunching on cubes.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits, juices, and sodas can all wear down your tooth enamel and increase your risk of decay. This in turn can make it much easier for other foods to cause cavities and breakage. If you do consume any food or beverages in this category, be sure to follow with plenty of water, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth, as citric acid temporarily softens enamel and could permanently scratch it not given proper time to reharden.
Popcorn
While most people don’t intend to bite down on those annoying un-popped kernels that sneak their way into your snack, doing so can cause quite a bit of damage. Worse yet, even if you’re extremely careful, you can still get annoying hulls caught between your teeth and under gum tissue, which can be a challenge to remove without assistance. While it’s not necessary to completely forgo this movie theater staple, be sure to enjoy it with caution in case one of those chaotic kernels makes a surprise appearance!
Help, I Chipped My Tooth! Now What?
If your tooth has become damaged due to diet (or any other reason) it is important that you have your dentist examine and repair it as soon as possible. While it may not seem like a big deal, the truth is that leaving a tooth injured can increase its risk of developing an infection. Worse yet, jagged or uneven edges can injure soft tissues like your tongue and cheeks, not to mention they can look a bit embarrassing on front teeth.
Depending on the severity and location of the damage, your dentist may be able to repair the tooth with dental bonding. However, in more severe cases, you may require a crown, root canal, or even an extraction. Thus, be sure to act quickly before damage has a chance of getting worse.
Remember, your teeth are the strongest parts of your body, but they’re not completely indestructible. Therefore, to ensure they stay healthy for a lifetime, avoid eating foods that increase their risk of damage, and if they do chip or crack, seek help from your dentist as soon as possible!
About Dr. Prach
Dr. Erin Prach earned her undergraduate degree at Eastern Washington University and her Dental Degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Currently, she is on track to achieve Diplomate Status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and holds a “Qualified Dentist Designation” from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She is also an active member of the American Dental Association as well as the Wyoming Dental Association. To schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning with Dr. Prach, visit our website or call 307-337-4770.