Sure, there are reasons to eat popcorn all year round. However, there’s something about the holidays that makes this snack an ever-present indulgence that shows up in many forms! There are popcorn balls, popcorn garlands, big tins of caramel popcorn, a bowl of popcorn on Halloween night, and the list just keeps on going. While this treat can present some benefits for your oral health in its natural form, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Of course, when you take our Southlake, TX team’s tips to heart, you can usually avoid them or, at the very least, respond in a proactive manner when popcorn gets the best of your grin.

Watch Out For Those Bottom-Of-The-Bowl Kernels

What is it that you find at the bottom of your popcorn bowl, the end of the popcorn bag, etc., when you’re done eating? It’s a bunch of popcorn kernels that didn’t explode into the fluffy white clouds you’ve been devouring. First, we warn you to watch out for these! They can quickly become bad news for your oral health if you bite down, assuming you’ve got puffed corn between your teeth, only to realize it’s a rock-hard seed. You may also want to play around with the cook time if you use a microwave to help get more of them to pop before serving.

Be Careful With The Candy-Coated Varieties

Now, about the type of popcorn you’re eating. If you’re using an air popper, well, it’s just popped corn. If you’re eating the kind that is completely coated in candy, whether it’s flavored and sweet, sticky caramel, or anything else, you should keep your oral health in mind. These candied versions will coat your teeth in sugars, which the bacteria in plaque love! We encourage you to rinse with water after (and brush if you can), so your indulgence isn’t encouraging cavities.

Rinse, Rinse, Rinse (Or Call Us) For Hull Issues

Did you get a hull stuck between two teeth or did it slip just beneath your gumline? Rinse with water over and over. See if gentle brushing or flossing helps. If not, don’t try to do surgery on yourself. Instead, contact us immediately for a visit.

Make Your Visits A Priority To Keep Your Smile Safe

Safeguard your smile and your long-term oral health by keeping visits with our team one of your top priorities. Schedule care with your Southlake, TX dentist today by calling Gregory Wright, DDS at (817) 481-7999. We gladly serve patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and surrounding areas.