Did you know your enamel is the hardest substance your body makes? While a fun fact you can show off, this doesn’t mean your teeth are invincible to harm. There are certain foods you eat that can cause some damage. If you aren’t careful, then you may find yourself heading to your emergency dentist. To help protect your smile, here are items you should keep off your plate.
1.) Ice Cubes
Chewing ice is a habit that many people have, but this can spell bad news if you aren’t careful. These cool cubes are hard and brittle, leading to hairline cracks on the surfaces of your teeth. If you want the cold effect they provide, then simply let them melt in your mouth or find a frozen treat that is softer for you.
2.) Acidic Foods
While many acidic foods, like pickles, oranges, and lemons, are easy to chew, they can increase your risk of damage. They weaken your enamel as you eat them, making you more prone to damaging your teeth. Thankfully, you can still enjoy them, but keep them in moderation. Rinse with water and brush 30 minutes after eating them to help prevent harm.
3.) Hard Candies
You might love a hard candy as a small treat throughout the day, but it’s important you don’t chew them. They are especially tough and need a strong bite force to get through, so you may develop chips. Even letting them dissolve in your mouth can increase your risk of decay. While one on occasion might not hurt, be sure to drink water after and brush your teeth to remove harmful plaque and bacteria.
4.) Popcorn Kernels
When you put your hand in a bowl of popcorn, you may grab many at a time to eat at once. However, kernels can find their way into your grasp. Biting into them at full force without knowing can leave you shocked, but with damage as well. You can help avoid this situation by shaking the container to bring them down to the bottom.
5.) Foods with a Hard Inside
Bone-in meats, fruits and vegetables with pits, and corn on the cob may be some items you frequently indulge in. While they can be tasty, be sure to be careful you don’t take a bite out of the hard center. You can simply cut out the tough parts or chew a bit slower so you can feel if anything is more rigid than the rest. That way, you do your best to avoid dental emergencies while you eat.
About the Practice
At Smile Fitness Dental Center, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. While you may take good care of your smile, a dental emergency can pop up out of nowhere. We are here to help you through it by getting you in as soon as possible and giving you advice while on the phone with us. If you want to take steps to protect your smile, schedule an appointment or call our office at (623) 303-0967.