5 of the Worst Foods to Get Stuck in Your Teeth

Food stuck between teeth is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can also lead to a range of oral health issues that may start out mild and become serious over time. Though your dentist may be able to help, it’s so important to clean your smile properly or avoid these woods altogether. Continue reading to learn how this can compromise your oral health.

#1: White Bread

White bread is one of the worst foods for your teeth. It is high in carbohydrates, which are broken down into sugars by the bacteria in your mouth. These sugars then cause those bacteria to form acid, which attacks your tooth enamel and can lead to cavities.

When you eat white bread, small bits may get stuck between your teeth, so you may need to press them out. Switching to whole-wheat bread is a good idea, as it is less likely to cause this problem.

#2: Popcorn

Popcorn kernels are pretty much the worst food to get stuck in your teeth because they are small, hard, and can easily lodge between teeth. They can also press into the front portion of the tooth and move beneath the gums, making them difficult to remove. If you eat popcorn, be sure to floss and brush your teeth thoroughly afterward to remove any stray kernels. Professional dental assistance may be needed for some situations.

#3: Spinach

Spinach is a superfood that nutritionists love to recommend. However, it’s also one of the worst offenders when it comes to getting stuck in teeth. The leaves are soft and thin, making them easy to get lodged between teeth without causing any discomfort. Many people have spinach stuck between their teeth at this very moment without even realizing it!

Additionally, spinach can cause tooth decay, just like any other food that gets stuck in between teeth. Therefore, it’s important to brush and floss regularly. Drinking water can also help remove loose food particles from your teeth.

#4: Meat

Meat is typically tough and chewy, so it’s no surprise that thin strands of it can get stuck between your teeth. This is especially true for steak, which is one of the toughest types of meat. Meat that’s eaten off the bone, such as chicken wings or ribs, is also likely to become lodged between your teeth.

#5: Crackers

Eating a couple of crackers may make you think that there’s no need to floss or brush your teeth. However, these salty treats are actually quite bad for your teeth. In fact, crackers are one of the leading causes of tooth decay.

Saltine crackers are especially bad for your teeth because they are a starch that is fermentable, highly processed, and can easily stick to your teeth and provide food for bacteria. If saltines get stuck between your teeth, they can provide food for harmful bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay.

About the Practice

Pace Dental of Vienna can help you keep your smile in good condition. Dr. Ahmed Saad and his team provide a wide range of dental services, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. They are committed to providing their patients with the highest quality care in a comfortable and relaxed environment. In addition to providing quality dental care, Pace Dental of Vienna can also offer you tips to help you prevent oral health problems from developing in the future. To learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call them at (703) 705-7476.