Worst Foods For Oral Health

Do you know there exists a relationship between what we eat and our oral health? Eating or drinking foods that are high in sugar, acids, or simple carbohydrates (like candy, soda, crackers, and chips) can cause tooth decay. That’s because these foods are more readily broken down into acids that erode tooth enamel. Even healthy foods like fruits and juices can cause problems if they contain a lot of natural sugar. Here is a list of foods that can  badly affect our oral health: 

• Soda

Soda may seem like a harmless, refreshing beverage, but it’s one of the worst foods for oral health. Soda regularly contains acids that wear down the enamel of your teeth. This exposes teeth to cavities, sensitivity, and other dental problems. Soda can also cause teeth discoloration.

• Sports Drinks

Sports drinks can be a good option for staying hydrated during physical activity. However, they are high in sugar and acid and can wear down enamel. If drinking sports drinks, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward to protect your enamel.

• Sugary Drinks

The worst foods for oral health are sugary drinks. Oral bacteria feed on sugar and release acids that eat away at your enamel, causing decay. Don’t be fooled by diet sodas. They can be just as bad. It’s best to stick to water.

• Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are delicious, juicy, and refreshing. Unfortunately, these fruits also cause enamel erosion because of their high acid content. This means that if you consume these fruits on a regular basis, you are more likely to experience tooth decay and cavities.

• Sticky Foods

Sticky foods can cause damage to tooth enamel when consumed too often. Foods like caramels, taffy, Starburst®, and gummy bears are terrible for your teeth. Sticky foods can cling in between your teeth and lead to tooth decay.

• Coffee

Drinking coffee regularly can increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion. Acidic substances like coffee can erode the enamel on your teeth, wearing away at the tooth’s protective layer. When you drink coffee, the pH balance in your mouth is also altered, making your mouth more acidic. If your enamel is wearing away, bacteria will more easily be able to eat away at your teeth and cause tooth decay.

• Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates you, causing dry mouth. When your mouth is dry, oral bacteria thrive. In addition to dry mouth, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to oral cancer.

• Dried Fruits

Dried fruits are sticky and hard to bite into, which can make them tough on your gums. It’s also full of sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. Consider choosing fresh fruit instead.

If you want to learn more tips to maintain good oral health, visit Discount Dental at 2735 W Court St, Pasco, WA 99301. You can also reach us at (509) 212-9227.