In recent years, people are more conscientious than ever about their snacking habits. Popcorn has become incredibly popular not just as a “movie star,” but as a health-conscious way to snack.
In addition to being delicious, popcorn can be fairly nutritious and low in calories. It can also come in all kinds of flavors, making it unlikely that you’ll get tired of it. However, none of that necessarily accounts for your oral health; you might wonder what popcorn could be doing to your teeth.
As it turns out, there are some serious oral health problems, and even some dental emergencies, that may be associated with too much popcorn. Here’s what you should know, and what you ought to eat instead.
How is Popcorn Bad for Oral Health?
Depending on how much you’re eating, there are a few ways that popcorn could potentially compromise your oral health. Here are a few examples:
Unpopped Kernels
One of the biggest hazards is not the popcorn itself, but the unpopped kernels that are often mixed in with them. Some people make a habit out of chewing them up along with the popcorn, but this is a risky proposition.
Unpopped kernels may not break as easily as you’d expect and can even crack a weakened tooth under some circumstances.
Sugary Coatings
There are all kinds of popcorn, and while some are fairly harmless, others are absolutely packed with sugar. Caramel corn, candy corn, and even kettle corn are all coated with sweets that can glom onto your teeth. If you aren’t careful, this could contribute to the development of plaque and tooth decay as a result.
Starchy Interiors
However, the coatings aren’t the only problem. Popcorn is made from starches that can be just as much of an issue for your oral health, as they’re easily converted by saliva into simple sugars. In this way, eating too much popcorn could be just as bad for your teeth as munching on candy.
Tooth-Healthier Alternatives
If you want a snack that’s good for your body and your teeth, vegetables are the best way to go. They’ll provide you with the same satisfying crunch without the danger. Fruit can also be great, though these also contain sugars and acids that can be problematic in excess. Low-fat dairy products, like cheese and yoghurt, also make for nutritious alternatives.
About Our Practice
At Sweet Smiles Dental Design, we know that there’s a lot more to dentistry than fillings and dental crowns. Everything from your diet to your daily dental hygiene are incredibly important in keeping your teeth in the best condition possible, which is why we prioritize patient education in addition to making our care as effective as it can possibly be.
If you have any questions about foods that can harm your teeth, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (303) 688-9519.