We all know that candy and sugary drinks can lead to cavities, but did you know that certain foods can actually chip or crack your teeth?
While our teeth are strong, they're not invincible. Biting down on the wrong thing can cause a tooth to chip, leading to discomfort, sensitivity, and the need for dental repairs. To help you protect your teeth from chips and cracks, here are five foods to watch out for.
Hard candies like lollipops, jawbreakers, and jolly ranchers are notorious for causing chipped teeth. The combination of their hardness and the temptation to bite down on them can spell disaster for your teeth.
If you do indulge in a hard candy, be sure to suck on it rather than biting or chewing. And never chew on non-food items - that's just asking for a chipped tooth.
Popcorn is a go-to snack for movie nights, but it can also be a source of tooth trouble. The real danger isn't the fluffy popped kernels, but the unpopped kernels at the bottom of the bag or within partially popped pieces. Biting down on one of these hard kernels can easily chip a tooth.
To minimize the risk, be careful as you near the end of your popcorn bowl and discard any unpopped kernels or smallish pieces of popcorn.
Chewing on ice cubes is a common habit, especially in the summer months. But just because ice is made of water doesn't mean it's safe for your teeth. Ice cubes are hard enough to chip or crack a tooth, especially if you have fillings or other dental work.
If you find yourself craving something cold, reach for cold water instead of solid cubes or suck on (don't bite) an ice pop.
Nuts are a healthy snack, packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. But biting down on a hard nut like an almond or Brazil nut can put a lot of pressure on your teeth. This is especially true if you have a habit of using your teeth to crack the shells.
To enjoy nuts safely, opt for shelled varieties and chew carefully.
Olives add a nice salty kick to salads, pizzas, and martinis, but they also come with a hidden danger: the pits. Accidentally biting down on an olive pit can easily chip a tooth. Always check for pits before popping an olive in your mouth, and be cautious when eating dishes that may contain them.
While these five foods are common causes of chipped teeth, they're not the only ones. Other potential tooth-chippers include:
In addition to being careful with the foods listed above, there are a few other things you can do to protect your teeth:
If you do chip a tooth, don't panic. Rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to reduce any swelling. Call our office right away to schedule an appointment. Treatment for a chipped tooth depends on the extent of the damage, but options include dental bonding, veneers, or crowns.
If you have any concerns about the strength of your teeth or are overdue for a check-up, give us a call today!
