{"id":269,"date":"2021-06-07T19:47:00","date_gmt":"2021-06-07T19:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bgyoungdental.com\/blog\/?p=269"},"modified":"2021-07-07T19:52:53","modified_gmt":"2021-07-07T19:52:53","slug":"popcorn-and-oral-health-mouth-healthy-snacks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bgyoungdental.com\/blog\/popcorn-and-oral-health-mouth-healthy-snacks\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Popcorn Actually Be Harmful to Your Oral Health?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Dentist<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to finding healthy snacks, the options are quite extensive. Of course, there\u2019s nothing quite like a bowl of popcorn, especially when it\u2019s free of excessive amounts of butter, salt, or sugar. Unfortunately, while popcorn is generally a safe option for your overall health, it can pose many risks for your oral health that you may not have previously considered. To learn more about the connection between popcorn and oral health<\/a>, how it puts your smile at risk, and other healthier alternatives to keep in mind, keep reading!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Popcorn Creates Lactic Acid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While popcorn is known for being low in calories, it creates a high amount of lactic acid when you consume it. The mouth does not naturally produce nor contain lactic acid, and for good reason. This is because it can erode your teeth\u2019s protective enamel, resulting in cavities. Keep in mind this process starts occurring well before you start picking kernels out of your teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kernel Hulls Can Easily Stick Between Teeth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No amount of food stuck between teeth is considered good or healthy, but popcorn hulls are uniquely bad because they can get extremely lodged in there. The only saving grace is that once this occurs, you\u2019re likely to notice it immediately. It may even drive you a bit crazy with how noticeable it becomes. Without prompt removal, it can accelerate the production at which oral bacteria consume it and create plaque acids as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cracked and Chipped Teeth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve ever eaten a handful of popcorn before, you may find that you\u2019re more likely to run into a kernel that didn\u2019t get cooked properly. This can easily lead you to biting into one when you least expect it. Popcorn kernels can be incredibly hard, even after they\u2019ve been cooked in oil. In fact, they can easily crack or chip a tooth or dental restoration, ruining your movie or other occasion where you may be relaxing and enjoying a snack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mouth-Friendly Snacks to Consider<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The good news is there are many healthier options worth looking at that are not only low-calorie, but significantly less likely to cause dental problems or a dental emergency. They include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n