Biting Off More than You Can Chew? | Creighton NE Dentist

Creighton-NE-Dentist

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 Family 1st Dental of Creighton today to schedule an exam and cleaning.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729
Family 1st Dental
Average rating:  
 0 reviews

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Creighton Dental Office

Dentist Creighton

Creighton Location

615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

(402) 358-3484

Dentist in 68729

Our Dental News

Dentist Creighton

myX5GWMZimMRBe60b8BooOadZD48eKK3NcQDjJjE

Experience Quality General Dentistry at Family 1st Dental – Creighton

October 27, 2025

Family 1st Dental – Creighton is a premier provider of general dentistry services located at 615 Main St, Creighton, NE 68729. This dental practice is dedicated to ensuring optimal oral health for every patient, continually aiming for a comfortable and […]

Learn More
myX5GWMZimMRBe60b8BooOadZD48eKK3NcQDjJjE

Your Trusted General Dentistry Provider in Creighton

October 24, 2025

Family 1st Dental – Creighton is committed to delivering exceptional general dentistry services designed to meet the varied needs of patients in Creighton, NE. Located conveniently at 615 Main St, this dental practice combines modern technology with a patient-centered approach […]

Learn More
myX5GWMZimMRBe60b8BooOadZD48eKK3NcQDjJjE

Comprehensive General Dentistry Services at Family 1st Dental – Creighton

October 22, 2025

The journey to maintaining optimal oral health begins with choosing the right dental practice. Family 1st Dental – Creighton, located at 615 Main St, Creighton, NE, delivers exceptional general dentistry services to cater to the unique needs of every patient. […]

Learn More