Foods That Can Get Stuck to Emerging Wisdom Teeth
Posted on 12/2/2024 by Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
 Emerging wisdom teeth can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. Not only can they cause discomfort and swelling, but they can also make it difficult to eat and maintain good oral hygiene. This is because wisdom teeth often erupt at an angle or partially, leaving pockets where food can get trapped. When food gets stuck, it can be difficult to remove, even with careful brushing and flossing. This can lead to a number of problems, including:
| • |
Bad breath: Food debris trapped around wisdom teeth can break down and release unpleasant odors. |
| • |
Gum disease: Bacteria in trapped food can cause inflammation and infection of the gums. |
| • |
Tooth decay: If food debris remains stuck to the tooth for an extended period, it can lead to cavities. |
| • |
Pericoronitis: This is an infection of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. |
To avoid these problems, it's important to be mindful of what you eat when you have emerging wisdom teeth. Here are some foods that are particularly prone to getting stuck:
| • |
Sticky foods: These include candy, caramel, toffee, and chewing gum. |
| • |
Chewy foods: Tough meats, bread crusts, and popcorn can also be difficult to remove from around wisdom teeth. |
| • |
Stringy foods: Foods like string cheese, spaghetti, and celery can get lodged between teeth and be difficult to floss out. |
| • |
Hard foods: Nuts, seeds, and hard candies can be difficult to chew and may break into smaller pieces that get stuck. |
| • |
Sugary foods and drinks: These can contribute to tooth decay, especially if they are allowed to sit around the teeth for a long time. |
Instead of these foods, opt for softer, easier-to-chew options like:
| • |
Soft fruits and vegetables: Bananas, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are all good choices. |
| • |
Soups and broths: These are easy to swallow and won't leave much residue on your teeth. |
| • |
Smoothies: These are a great way to get your fruits and vegetables in a convenient and easy-to-consume form. |
| • |
Pasta and rice: These are soft and easy to chew, but be sure to avoid sauces that are too sticky or chewy. |
In addition to choosing the right foods, it's also important to practice good oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around your wisdom teeth. You may also want to use an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria.
If you are having trouble keeping your wisdom teeth clean, or if you are experiencing pain or discomfort, be sure to see your dentist. They may recommend removing your wisdom teeth, especially if they are causing problems.
Emerging wisdom teeth can be a nuisance, but by following these tips, you can help prevent food from getting stuck and maintain good oral health.
|
|
