Did you know that if you have fillings or have had a full-mouth restoration you’re more susceptible to cracked teeth? Unfortunately, even if you take great care of your teeth, you could have a dental emergency due to the foods you’re eating.Keep in mind that it’s not just foods that present a problem for your teeth. Very often opening packages or chewing on pen caps can cause damage.Read on to find out more about 5 foods that can harm your teeth. Don’t forget to add our Dental Emergency phone number to your contacts ASAP: (804) 794-4588. We hope you won’t need it, but if you ever do, we’re here for you.
#1: IceWe’re sorry to burst the bubble of all the ice-crunchers out there, but we recommend you stop chewing ice. This doesn’t include ice from your favorite summer drinks like snow cones and slushies, where the ice is fine and melts quickly. Ice in crushed or cubed form, even the smallest of cubes, can harm your teeth.#2 PopcornHave you ever bit down on an unpopped kernel? (Did you just cringe a little thinking about it?) There’s a number of painful things that could go wrong if you unknowingly bite down on one of these, landing you with a cracked tooth or even breaking a filling.Our tips is this: Shake shake shake the bowl or bag to get the kernels to settle in the bottom.#3 Hard CandyRemember that commercial, “How many licks does it take to get to the center of the Tootsie Pop?” The world may never know - but it can’t hurt to try. Hard candy should not be enjoyed like other soft candies, as biting down on them could damage your teeth. And that’s not to mention the loads of sugar in each piece of candy. Overall, it can’t hurt to limit your candy intake.#4 AlmondsWhile popular, the outer shell of almonds (as well as other popular nuts) can easily crack your teeth, making them ultra-sensitive and sometimes painful. Instead of buying nuts with the outer shell, opt for slivers OR learn how to do it yourself: How To Blanch, Split, & Sliver Almonds. Keep in mind that while enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s also brittle.#5 Non-Food ItemsRaise your hand if you’ve ever opened a package with your teeth. You’re not the only one! Unfortunately using your teeth in place of your all-purpose knife, scissors or other kitchen tools could ruin your day with a dental emergency. Teeth are meant for biting and chewing only. Keep a pair of handy scissors to help in those times you’re having difficulty opening a package (and it can’t hurt to have them handy when opening holiday gifts this season too!)Do you have a fellow ice-chewer in your life? Perhaps someone who likes to use their teeth to open every little thing? Click the social icons to the left to share with your friends + family who need to see this.Don’t forget: Put our phone number in your contacts incase of a dental emergency.(804) 794-4588