Is popcorn the worst food for your teeth?

There are many foods that can damage your dental work or even chip your teeth. One of the biggest culprits is popcorn.

Unsurprisingly, unpopped popcorn kernels can chip teeth or damage your dental work if you crunch down on them. But it’s not only the unpopped kernels you need to worry about, popcorn poses a double threat when it comes to your oral health. The thin shell that covers the kernel can get wedged between your teeth or between your tooth and gum line. Once stuck, it gives bacteria a source of food. When bacteria is given a food source it can lead to tooth decay.

Dental health risks associated with snacking on popcorn:

  • Cracked Teeth
  • Damaged Dental Work
  • Gum Abscesses

It is easy to see how popcorn kernels can crack your teeth or damage your dental restorations but how can popcorn cause a gum abscess?

First of all, what is a gum abscess? A gum abscess or a periodontal abscess is a pus-filled pocket in gum tissue. An abscess can occur with serious gum disease, which can eventually cause the gums to pull away from the teeth. An abscess causes swollen, irritated and painful gums. Left untreated, this bacterial infection often results in intense discomfort, and can eventually lead to the loss of teeth. Food particles or foreign objects, just like the shell of a popcorn kernel, can become lodged in the tight spaces between your teeth and gums and lead to an abscess.

So, is popcorn that bad for your teeth? Sadly, popcorn does rank quite poorly when it comes to foods that cause risks to your dental health. If you love eating popcorn, just remember to brush and floss your teeth after enjoying it. Use a soft-bristled brush and pay close attention to your gum-line to remove any stray kernels. When possible, try to choose tooth-healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables instead. Dairy products like cheese and sugar-free yogurt may also benefit your teeth because of their high calcium content.

Our dental team can answer questions about your child’s oral health needs. Call us today at (403) 257-1180 to schedule a consultation.