The Top 10 Food Items That are Most Likely to Get Stuck In Your Teeth

Spring is here, and summer won’t be far behind. That means a lot more backyard gatherings, barbecues, and summer picnics, not to mention graduations, weddings, the 4th of July, and so on. One thing that all these events have in common is that there’s always plenty to eat, from delicious barbecue to a refreshing slice of watermelon to grandma’s potato salad. With all those tempting treats out there, your Kansas City family dentist thought it would be a good idea to remind you about some of the foods that are likely to get stuck in your teeth so you’ll know what to avoid at the buffet table. If we’ve listed some of your favorites, don’t worry! Just be sure to brush after you indulge!

1. Popcorn: Fire up the projector and enjoy a backyard movie night under the stars. If you’re completing the experience with some popcorn, beware of those kernels and hulls that can get stuck in your teeth!
2. Raspberries, Strawberries, Blackberries: Berries and other summer fruits are a real treat during the season, but their tiny seeds can easily get lodged in teeth.
3. Parsley, Spinach, Kale: Eating your greens is good for you! However, these leafy greens are often dreaded for their tendency to stick to teeth.
4. Corn on the Cob: Just like popcorn, the unpopped variety can also get stuck in your teeth. Given that corn is a favorite at backyard barbecues and picnics, it’s something to watch out for this summer.
5. Chia Seeds, Flax Seeds, Sesame Seeds: These kinds of small seeds are often found in summer smoothies and baked goods. Just like berry seeds, these little things can easily find their way into the spaces between your teeth.
6. Meat: Meat is naturally a staple at barbecues. Fibrous meats such as steak or chicken can leave unpleasant strands stuck between your teeth long after you’re done chewing.
7. Dried Fruit: Any sticky food can be bad for your teeth, simply because its very stickiness makes it more likely to hang around your mouth uninvited after you’ve finished eating. This goes for raisins, dried figs, and pretty much any other dried fruit.
8. Oats: Oats themselves can sometimes get stuck between teeth, but cooked and sticky oatmeal is a particular peril.
9. Chips and Crackers: Crunchy, crispy chips and crackers go great with a cool, refreshing beverage. Unfortunately, the very high starch content that makes them so satisfying can also cause them to cling to your teeth.
10. Nuts: Nuts are notoriously difficult to wash from your mouth entirely, and if you eat a handful of nuts for some quick energy this summer, you’re likely to find bits in your teeth later on.

Why does this happen? The spaces in between teeth can easily trap food, but so can your teeth themselves. Despite their appearance, teeth aren’t actually completely smooth. Individual teeth have textures and grooves that can catch small bits of food, and specific kinds of foods make the situation worse. The ten items on this list are on here because their own qualities make them more likely to stick to teeth for various reasons.

What to do? If something gets stuck on your teeth, there’s no reason to fret. Regular brushing and flossing can always help remove unwanted particles of food. For particularly stubborn hangers-on, you may want to chew some sugar-free gum that can help to “grab” bits of food off your teeth. Be sure to choose gum that has the ADA seal of approval!

If all else fails, you can always call your Kansas City family dentist! Here at Blacker Family Dental, we’re always happy to help with any of your dental needs, whatever they may be. Just give us a call at (816) 763-8400 or click here to schedule an appointment.