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It is not uncommon for many of us to grab a bite to eat in a hurry. Americans have grown accustomed to bigger food portions at restaurants, but our mouths have not. Trying to fit that oversized sandwich or apple in your mouth might be worse for you than you have ever imagined. Below are some reasons why this could be detrimental for your oral health and what you can do about it.
Why This Is a Problem
According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), taking bites that are too big for you to chew can not only cause jaw and teeth issues, it can also cause digestive problems. Discomfort, swelling and difficulty eating may result from opening your jaw too wide. Taking large bites may also result in food not being chewed thoroughly, which can lead to weight gain and digestive issues.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
Constantly opening your jaw too wide becomes an even larger problem for people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull bones enabling movement during chewing. People with TMD, usually have a restriction with how wide they can open their jaws. Taking large bites of food, especially hard foods like apples, can aggravate this condition making pain and jaw clicking worse.
What You Can Do
If you have food that is too large to chew or starts to cause jaw discomfort, try cutting your food into smaller portions. This makes food easier to eat with less hassle. Also consider eating softer foods that won’t harm your teeth or irritate your jaw.
Tip: Avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, hard candies, and opening nuts with your teeth. This can lead to a chipped tooth!
Contact our team today to schedule an exam and cleaning.
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Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with our amazing team!
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My daughter Tyler is currently a patient. She has had the greatest experience. Everyone has been very nice and informative.
Tonia
The best always kind very professional doctors check and make sure everything is good with your teeth this office is a gem!
Lori Piscataway
I recently visited Horsey Orthodontics and was impressed by their warm atmosphere and friendly staff. They take patient opinions seriously, even from kids, making the experience comfortable for everyone. Highly... read more
Mitchell Pessoa
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Absolutely enjoy every visit. The employees are very friendly, there is always a short waiting time, and they give the girls incentives; which they love by the way!
carlisa childress
Have only been with Horsey for a short amount of time but all of the staff are knowledgeable, kind, and punctual. They've made a new situation very stress free.
Cami Poss
My daughter has absolutely loved going to horsey orthodontics. She says they are so nice, they are like family! They are patient, good with kids, and a dippin dots after... read more
Sylvia Clay
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Literally the best staff ever! From the initial visit at the adult center to the Henrico location I felt extremely comfortable. The pricing was broken down and explained throughly. I... read more
Kay H.
I love this orthodontist. They’re so understanding! They make sure your needs are met & that you’re satisfied. I’m so glad I’m apart of horsey orthodontist.
Tianna Pope
Great place for your orthodontic needs. Great staff. Everyone is welcoming & answer all questions you have
Withrow Stockton
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I would highly recommend Horsey Orthodontics to family and friends! Staffing was friendly and answered all questions and was very helpful. They even gave me a gift bag which was... read more
Zykirria Hill
Great staff and very friendly to work with. Easy in and out in no time. I have referred 2 friends already.
rhonda agnew
My son, Kristian W is 16 and gets his braces here. The team from the front desk to the techs, to the orthodontist are all super friendly and super... read more
Carmen Daniel
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My experience with Horsey has been absolutely amazing. All the employees are super sweet and friendly. Every time I go, I’m so excited to pick out new colors and play... read more
Natalia McNair
I have been with Horsey Orthodontist as a patient for 2 years. All the Doctors and staff have always been so welcoming. I have auto immune health conditions and they... read more
Sandra Layton
My son, Kristian W is 16 and gets his braces here. The team from the front desk to the techs, to the orthodontist are all super friendly and super... read more
Carmen Daniel
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