Have you ever bitten into a toffee and felt the sticky sweetness on your teeth hours after when you swept your tongue over them?
While brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups play crucial roles in preserving your dental health, the food and drinks you consume can have a significant impact on the well-being of your teeth.
Some items are detrimental to oral health, contributing to tooth decay, enamel erosion, and gum problems. In this article, we will explore the worst foods for your teeth so you can make more informed dental service choices for a radiant and healthy smile.
Sugary Snacks
Question: What's the worst food for your teeth?
Answer: Sugary snacks like candy, cookies, and sugary cereals.
The bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars and produce acids that erode the enamel. This leads to cavities.
Soda
Not only does soda contain high amounts of sugar (or acidic sweeteners in the case of diet soda), but they're also highly acidic.
The acid attacks the tooth enamel, weakening it and making it more susceptible to decay. Opt for water or unsweetened tea as a healthier alternative.
Citrus Fruits
While citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are packed with vitamin C, they're also highly acidic. The acid can erode tooth enamel, so it's important to consume them in moderation.
Sticky Candies
Candies that are sticky and chewy, like caramels and gummy bears, are particularly harmful to your teeth. They get stuck in the crevices of your teeth and promote the growth of harmful bacteria.
Potato Chips
Chips tend to get stuck between your teeth and gums, providing a food source for bacteria and leading to plaque buildup. Opt for healthier, less starchy snacks like carrot sticks or celery.
Dried Fruits
Dried fruits like raisins and apricots may seem like a healthy choice, but they are concentrated sources of sugar. They can be sticky, adhering to your teeth and promoting decay.
Coffee and Tea
The dark pigments in these beverages can lead to discoloration over time. Furthermore, coffee is acidic and can weaken tooth enamel. Opt for less staining options like herbal teas.
Alcohol
Alcohol can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production, which is crucial for maintaining oral health. A dry mouth is more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
Sports and Energy Drinks
Many sports and energy drinks are high in sugar and acid, making them a double threat to your dental health. The acid erodes enamel, while the sugar provides a food source for bacteria.
Ice
The hard texture of ice can lead to chipped or cracked teeth. Avoid the temptation to chew on ice and enjoy it in its intended form - as a cooling element in your beverages.
Limit or Avoid Eating the Worst Foods for Your Teeth
Sometimes, you can't avoid eating a sweet dessert or drinking your daily sweetened coffee in the morning. It becomes a part of your life.
But it's important to limit the worst foods for your teeth as much as possible.
At the Coquitlam Centre Dental Clinic, we are all about preventative dental care. We teach you how to take care of your teeth at every moment by eating right and more. Set up an appointment with our team today.