Whether you’re reclined in a comfortable chair at the theatre or cozying up on your couch at home, watching a movie just isn’t complete without popcorn. So, it’s not too surprising that the Popcorn Board estimates that roughly 15 billion quarts of this snack are enjoyed by Americans each year. But can this popular food damage your teeth? Keep reading to learn the answer!
So, Can Popcorn Damage Your Teeth?
Unfortunately, the answer is “yes.” While popcorn is usually airy with the perfect crunch, it is possible for your teeth to accidentally bite down hard on a kernel. This can chip, crack, and even fracture your tooth (or any existing dental work you have), which warrants an immediate visit to your dentist’s office for the necessary restorative care. The easiest way to prevent that from happening is by thoroughly checking your bowl of popcorn beforehand and not mindlessly eating during the movie.
What To Do If You Get Popcorn Stuck Between Your Teeth
If you get a piece of popcorn stuck between your teeth, do NOT reach for the tweezers, a toothpick, a pocket knife, or anything else sharp. Instead, go to the sink and rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm saltwater. Then, grab your floss and gently remove the debris. If that doesn’t work, then get in touch with your dental team to schedule an appointment.
6 Smile-Friendly Snacks to Reach for Instead
If you’re looking for a movie snack that’s both delicious and smile-friendly, then try the following:
- Apples with peanut butter
- Green or red grapes
- Cheese and crackers
- Carrots with hummus
- Cashews
- Broccoli with ranch
In short, while popcorn can certainly be enjoyed on occasion, it’s a good idea to switch up your movie snacks in an effort to avoid serious dental injuries, like a crack in your enamel. That way, you can fully enjoy the experience without an intermission at your dentist’s office!
About the Practice
For our team at Webster Lake Dental, it’s important to do what we can to help you avoid dental injuries, including serious chips and fractures. Of course, if you do need emergency care, you can still turn to us! Our talented, experienced, and caring dentists offer convenient appointment times, welcome multiple financial solutions, and provide one-visit restorations so your pain-free smile is restored in no time. If you want to schedule an appointment with us – whether it’s for a routine checkup or same-day restorative care – visit our website or call (508) 943-8111.