Like all parts of your body, your teeth need proper nutrition to stay healthy. With that being said, there are certain foods that can harm your teeth and oral health. Below, we’ve listed a few foods that you should limit or avoid altogether.
- Hard candy
Hard candies, such as lollipops, are some of the worst foods for your teeth. The sugar in them is also more likely to stick to your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
- Caramel
Caramel candies are sticky, sugary, and acidic, so they cling to the teeth. When these candies are consumed, the saliva production in the mouth decreases, and bacteria in the mouth grow more quickly, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Plus, the acids in caramel can erode the teeth very easily.
- Sports drinks
Most sports drinks contain high levels of acid and sugar, which can erode your teeth. What’s more, the acid and sugar content can cause dry mouth, which is a major risk factor for tooth decay. It’s best to avoid sports drinks as much as possible. But if you must drink one, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. You can also rinse your mouth with water after drinking a sports drink.
- Dried fruit
Dried fruits are sticky, chewy, and sugary. They provide no nutritional value. Because these snacks are so sticky, they can cling to your teeth and cause tooth decay.
- Ice
Ice is one of the worst foods for your oral health. The cold temperature of ice can irritate your gums, causing soreness and swelling. This can lead to bleeding and gum disease. Plus, chewing ice can damage your teeth.
- Wine
Wine is high in acid, which wears away the enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Red wine is one of the worst offenders, as it has higher levels of acid. If you can’t give up your favorite wine, try to drink it with a meal and swish water around your mouth afterward.
- Coffee
Coffee can stain your teeth, and the starches and sugar in coffee can cling to your teeth. So, brushing after drinking coffee is important. Additionally, coffee is often consumed with cream and sugar, and these additives can wreak havoc on teeth and gums.
- Acidic foods
Acidic foods and drinks (such as lemons, vinegar, and tomato juice) can soften and erode tooth enamel. Because these foods are acidic, they can also cause tooth sensitivity. You can avoid harming your teeth by limiting the consumption of acidic foods and drinks.
We will provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while maintaining smiles. Visit our office, Down To Earth Dental, at 1407 W. 29th Street Pueblo, CO 81008. You can also reach Dentist Pueblo, CO, at (719) 546-0404 and schedule an appointment.
