Life is about the stories we tell. When misfortune strikes, we can always say “well, at least there’s a story here.” If you were to chip a tooth, you’d want the story to involve extreme sports or a life-threatening stunt. You wouldn’t want to have to explain it by saying: “I once bit down too hard on a chicken bone.”
If you aren’t careful about what you eat, several foods can cause a dental emergency. To avoid winding up with an embarrassing story, here are three foods that can chip teeth.
Popcorn
If you’ve ever made popcorn at home, you’re probably aware that there are always a handful of kernels left that don’t pop. They sit there like landmines at the bottom of the bag, waiting to crack a molar. Most of us don’t eat unpopped kernels voluntarily, but if you’re pouring directly from the bag into your mouth, they might sneak in.
You should shake the bag or bowl frequently to sift the kernels to the bottom. You should also eat only small amounts of popcorn at a time to avoid a kernel getting in under the radar.
Nuts
Nuts are nutritious and tasty, but certain types can cause trouble. Shelling pistachios and sunflower seeds with your teeth can wear out your enamel, making you more likely to have a dental emergency down the line. Moreover, these shells can easily split apart into smaller pieces and get lodged in your gums. You should remove the shell around the nuts with your hands before you eat.
Ice
Many people chew ice habitually, without even really thinking about it. If that sounds like you, it’s a habit you should try to kick. Not only is it possible to chip a tooth, but even if you get lucky the ice is likely to erode your enamel. Ironically, this may lead to heat or cold sensitivity.
If you’re constantly craving ice, you may be suffering from an iron deficiency. Talk to your doctor about taking supplements or try increasing the amount of iron in your diet.
These foods may be tempting, but in most cases, it only takes one mistake to wind up with a serious toothache. If you want to avoid a dental emergency, be careful with the way you eat these foods, and don’t be afraid to cut back if necessary. Of course, if you do chip your tooth, get in touch with your dentist right away!
About Our Practice
At Dental Essentials of Rocky Hill, we have everything we need to address any issue as soon as possible, so you don’t have to deal with your problem alone. We offer same-day emergency appointments and a variety of restorative treatments. So, if you need help right away, we’re here. If you have any questions about how to prevent dental emergencies, we can be reached via our website, or by phone at (860) 563-3766.