Toothache Triggers
When your teeth are hurting, eating anything can feel like a challenge. It probably goes without saying that some foods may exacerbate the pain, either by being too tough to chew or by having the potential to erode your enamel. To ensure you're putting the right things on your plate, here are 10 foods to avoid when you have a toothache, along with 10 better alternatives to munch on instead.
1. Popcorn
Crunchy and prone to getting stuck in your teeth, popcorn is a less-than-ideal choice to snack on when you're having tooth pain. Plus, flavors that are sticky and sweet will only make matters worse, causing further tooth decay.
2. Taffy & Caramel
Speaking of sticky sweets, taffy and caramel should also be avoided when your teeth are sore or hurting. These candies can get stuck in your molars and can be hard to clean properly, giving the sugary content more chance to rot and cause cavities.
3. Soda
It's not just the sugar in soda that can cause major problems for your teeth—it's the carbonation. Fizzy beverages are acidic, which can weaken the enamel and heighten sensitivity, exacerbating your issues.
4. Alcohol
Many wines and spirits are acidic, which makes sipping on them a no-no when your teeth are already sore and aching. On top of that, alcohol is a diuretic and can cause dehydration, drying out your mouth and worsening your issues.
5. Spicy Foods
Sorry, spice lovers: spicy foods are off the list of things you can eat, too. If a dish is made with something acidic, like tomatoes, it can further erode the enamel and cause sensitivity. Plus, the peppers can irritate any exposed nerves in the teeth, making tooth pain worse.
6. Citrus Fruits
You probably already know why citrus fruits—think oranges, grapefruits, lemons, tomatoes, and limes—are off the table when you have sore teeth: they're acidic. Munching on these fruits can further irritate your mouth and teeth by eroding your enamel.
7. Chips & Crackers
Just like popcorn, chips and crackers are crunchy, which requires forceful chewing—something you probably don't want to be doing when your teeth are already sore. Moreover, the sharp, crumbly bits can jab at your gums, making the pain worse.
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8. Pastries & Baked Goods
Pastries and baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, muffins, and croissants, are often high in sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. Instead of buying pre-packaged ones at the grocery store, try baking these desserts yourself to control the sugar level.
9. Ice Cream
Ice cream isn't only sweet, meaning it can lead to cavities and decay, but it's also a frozen dessert, which can heighten sensitivity and worsen tooth pain. If you're looking for a treat to satisfy a craving, it's best to pick one that you can enjoy at room temperature.
10. Coffee
You'll also want to put your morning cup of Joe on hold when you're experiencing tooth pain. Coffee is acidic, which means it can—you guessed it—weaken your enamel and increase sensitivity, making your situation worse. Plus, hot beverages can be harsh for sensitive teeth, so it's important to always cool your drinks down before consuming.
What, then, are some better alternatives to snack on when you have sore teeth? Let's jump into 10 delicious choices that are easy on the gums:
1. Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm, hearty, and soothing, it's no surprise that chicken noodle soup is such a popular comfort dish. It's a delicious dish to enjoy when you're having tooth and sensitivity issues as well, given how soft the veggies and noodles are.
2. Yogurt
Instead of having ice cream, have a bowl of yogurt. Not only is it soft and gentle on the teeth, but it's also extremely nutritious. You can also add various toppings to elevate it, such as berries, bananas, cinnamon, and honey.
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3. Bananas
Just because you can't eat citrus fruits doesn't mean you still shouldn't get your fruit intake in. Bananas are a great choice for when you're experiencing tooth pain, as they're soft, mushy, and easy to chew. Berries, peaches, and watermelon are also easy on the teeth.
4. Oatmeal
You probably already know that oatmeal is one of the most nutritious breakfast choices out there, but its soft consistency also makes it a great dish to enjoy when you have sore teeth. Top with some berries and cinnamon and dig in!
5. Scrambled Eggs
Who doesn't love scrambled eggs? Whether you prefer to keep it simple or spice it up by adding other ingredients to make an omelette, this fluffy, tasty dish is sure to boost your energy levels when you're experiencing tooth pain.
6. Smoothies
While you'll want to avoid adding acidic fruits like oranges and grapefruits, berries, bananas, mangoes, and peaches are great alternatives to choose from instead. The best part? This drink provides all the nutrition without requiring you to chew.
7. Mashed Potatoes
Who says you can't have mashed potatoes outside of Thanksgiving? If you're craving something starchy, this is a great alternative to crunchy chips, which can hurt your teeth and jaw. Thankfully, there's no chewing required here!
8. Soft Veggies
While you don't want to munch on raw veggies when your teeth are already sore, that doesn't mean you should skimp on them altogether. To ensure you still get your fill of fiber and nutrients, steam or boil your veggies to soften them before digging in.
9. Tofu
Tofu is a great lean protein choice not only for vegans and vegetarians, but also for those with tooth pain. Given its mild base flavor, there are numerous ways to season and spice up your tofu, making it the perfect side dish.
10. Mac & Cheese
Creamy, gooey, comforting mac and cheese... who would ever say no to this dish? It's no chicken noodle soup, but these soft, cheesy noodles are sure to hit the spot nonetheless—even when your teeth aren't feeling the best.
