Posted by Gorham & Ammarell Dentistry on Dec 25 2022, 11:57 PM
To keep your smile healthy and strong, you need to be aware of the kinds of food that can harm your teeth. Listed below is a list of foods that can cause tooth decay and cavities.
Gummy candies can stick to your teeth, which could cause serious damage to your oral tissues. These sticky candies can also coat your teeth with sugar, which can fuel the growth of harmful bacteria. Avoiding these types of sweets can help to protect your oral health.
Sticky, sugary foods are bad for your teeth because these types of food tend to stay in your mouth for a long time. The longer the sugary substance stays in your mouth, the longer it has to decay or stain your teeth. If you can’t brush right after enjoying a sweet treat, try to at least rinse your mouth with water afterward and clean your teeth as soon as you can.
Aside from tooth enamel, sugar also contributes to plaque buildup. Plaque is a soft biofilm that builds up on your teeth and can cause tooth decay if it isn’t brushed away regularly. When plaque isn’t properly removed with brushing, flossing, and/or mouthwash, it can turn into tartar which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
While not all sweet treats are bad for your teeth, you should limit the number of sugars you consume each day to prevent tooth decay from developing.
While acidic foods are not necessarily bad for your oral health, they can cause tooth enamel erosion, which can put you at a higher risk for cavities and sensitivity. In fact, most foods that are highly acidic are also high in sugar. Dentists advise patients to be cautious with acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and more – especially those that are consumed in excess. To help counteract the effects of high-acidity food, you should drink water after eating or drinking them. Water helps wash away residual sugar and acid that may still be in the mouth.
Soda is one of the worst offenders when it comes to dental health because it contains a significant amount of sugar. Not only is soda bad for your waistline, but it’s also bad for your teeth as well. The carbonation in soda can wear down the enamel on your teeth, leading to tooth decay over time. If you must drink soda, try to limit yourself to one glass a day and rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away the sugars.
Many sports drinks contain acids that erode enamel, increasing your risk of cavities and tooth sensitivity. These drinks also contain large concentrations of sugar, which feed oral bacteria that cause decay and gum disease. Instead of reaching for a sports drink after a workout, choose water to help your body rehydrate instead. You can also enjoy unsweetened iced tea or coconut water as healthy alternatives.
Other foods to avoid if you’re concerned about your teeth include sticky candy, hard candies, caramels, chewy chips, cookies, bread, crackers, pretzels, potato chips, corn on the cob, dried fruit, gummy bears, and other sweets. If you want a snack to tide you over until your next meal, try a piece of fruit or some raw veggies like cucumber slices. You’ll get plenty of nutrients and fiber from these foods without the risk of damaging your teeth and gums.
To find out more about the dental services offered at Gorham & Ammarell Dentistry, call (615) 327-4914 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 124 30th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203.
