We LOVE popcorn! How can it cause long term damage to our smile??
Popcorn is delicious....but also dangerous! This favorite snack is composed of a kernel and its surrounding shell. Although very tasty, these components may, at times, get lodged between your gums and your teeth. If unnoticed, the resulting "pocket" will attract bacteria and possibly result in a lost tooth! When noticed in time, the lodged shell can be removed with proper flossing. A trapped kernel, when left for long periods of time, may cause bone loss around itself and eventually result in periodontal disease and tooth loss.
Additionally, when left undisturbed, the associated bacterial colonies will cause decay, abcesses, and eventual shifts in your bite...ultimately affecting the appearance and function of your smile.
What should you consider doing should one of these popcorn kernels go unnoticed, eventually causing the surrounding tooth to be lost? As in any other tooth loss scenario, replacing it with a dental implant is considered the standard of care, when indicated. Additionally, a gum and bone graft may be considered should the situation call for it. With optimal bone and gum infrastructure, the dental implant's success and long term prognosis should be excellent.
The point here is to BE CAREFUL when eating popcorn. Floss after every meal and snack, making certain no "unwanted guests" have remained inside your gums. As we all know, unwelcome, long standing house guests begin to stink after a while!
Remember, we are here to assist you in keeping that "Smile You'd Be Proud To Wear...ANYWHERE!"
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Please read below our safety precautions that were taken to enhance the safety of you and our team while in our office.
Our upgraded safety enhancements EXCEED our already stringent infection control and universal precautions. Because your safety, and that of our team, is our greatest priority, we have surpassed OSHA and CDC recommendations, creating an environment conducive to bringing you comfort and peace of mind!!
