That constant scanning before every bite—yeah, it’s exhausting. I always end up overthinking soft foods too, which feels silly but it’s real. If you haven’t already, covering the sharp edge with dental wax or even sugarless gum can help a bit until you get in. I’d steer clear of anything gritty or crunchy... one bad crunch and it’s a whole new level of regret.
Yep, I totally get the soft food paranoia. I thought mashed potatoes were my safe zone but then a rogue bit of potato skin sent me into panic mode... I tried the sugarless gum trick too and it was a lifesaver, though I kept worrying it would get stuck. The urge to crunch something is real, but not worth it—trust me, I learned the hard way with a single crouton.
I’ve gotta say, I’m actually a little skeptical about the sugarless gum trick. I know people swear by it, but I tried it once and it just made me super anxious the whole time—like, is this the moment it’s gonna wedge itself somewhere it shouldn’t? I ended up just spitting it out after a couple minutes because I couldn’t relax. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather deal with the urge to chew than risk that.
Also, about the soft food thing... I get the mashed potatoes panic. For me, yogurt and scrambled eggs were the only things I really trusted. Even soups made me nervous if there were any sneaky chunks hiding in there. It’s wild how something as tiny as a potato skin or a crouton can feel like a landmine when your tooth is busted. I’m still not sure there’s a totally “safe” food, but I guess it’s all about finding what you can actually eat without stressing yourself out the whole time.
It’s wild how something as tiny as a potato skin or a crouton can feel like a landmine when your tooth is busted.
That just made me laugh, because it’s so true. I swear, the first time I tried to eat soup after chipping a molar, I thought I was being careful—then bam, surprise carrot chunk. Nearly jumped out of my chair. It’s like your mouth turns into a minefield and you’re just tiptoeing around, hoping nothing sets off the pain.
I totally get what you mean about the sugarless gum too. I’ve read all those tips, but honestly, the idea of gum getting stuck in the wrong spot gives me the creeps. Tried it once and immediately panicked. Ended up with my tongue poking at it every two seconds, convinced I was making things worse. Maybe it works for some folks, but for me? Not worth the stress.
Eggs and yogurt have been my go-tos as well. Sometimes even those make me nervous if they’re not perfectly smooth. I tried applesauce once—thought that would be safe—but there was a little chunk hiding in there and I nearly had a heart attack. It’s funny how foods you never think twice about suddenly become suspect.
I’ve found that letting things cool down helps too. Hot food seems to make everything feel more sensitive for me. And I always cut stuff into tiny pieces now, even if it feels silly. Better to look ridiculous than end up in pain.
Honestly, I don’t think there’s a perfect answer except just doing whatever feels least stressful in the moment. Some days I’d rather just skip eating than risk another “landmine.” At least we’re not alone in this—seems like everyone’s got their own weird workaround.
I actually get what you mean about gum, but I kinda have to disagree—when I chipped my back tooth, sugarless gum was a lifesaver for me. It kept stuff from hitting the sensitive spot, and as long as I stuck with a tiny piece and pressed it in gently, it didn’t get stuck or freak me out. Maybe it’s just a matter of finding the right brand or texture? Not saying it works for everyone, but worth a shot if you’re desperate. That said, I totally relate to the paranoia over “safe” foods. Even mashed potatoes gave me trust issues for a while...
