Worst Foods For Oral Health

Our diet can greatly affect our oral health. Our dentist in Ahwatukee suggests not to always think of food only as something that nourishes our bodies. Our diet can actually harm our teeth. Here is a list of some foods and beverages that can be bad for our oral health:

• Sticky foods

Sticky foods have a tendency to stick to teeth. Once the food gets stuck to teeth, it’s difficult to remove from the teeth, even with brushing or using floss. Even taffy or caramel that’s only chewed on for a few seconds can lead to tooth decay. Sticky foods include taffy, caramels, candies, dried fruits, gum, caramel corn, granola bars, hard candies, and gummy candies.

• Hard foods

Hard foods can damage your teeth if eaten often. Hard foods include ice, nuts, popcorn kernels, pretzels, etc. 

• Sugary foods

Sugary foods can promote tooth decay because they cause bacteria to cling to your tooth enamel. The bacteria weaken the enamel, which can require a filling. If you consume sugary foods, try to brush your teeth as soon as possible. Brushing your teeth directly after you consume sugary foods can reduce the amount of damage they can cause.

• Acidic foods

Sugary and acidic foods can cause cavities. This is because these foods promote tooth decay by eroding tooth enamel. When enamel is worn away by these foods, the inner layers of the tooth (called dentin) are exposed. When dentin is exposed, teeth become sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages.

• Dry foods

Dry foods, like crackers and cookies, can stick to your teeth and promote tooth decay. These foods also lack any nutrients that are good for your teeth. If you do like to enjoy these foods, you should drink water afterward to wash away the food particles and bacteria left behind.

• Coffee and tea

Coffee and tea are both typically high in sugar. The next time you enjoy a cup, be mindful of the sugar and creamer you add in. Black tea, in particular, can stain the teeth, so drink it in moderation.

• Alcoholic beverages

Alcoholic beverages – especially beer and wine – are highly acidic. Combined with the high sugar content in alcoholic beverages, your mouth becomes the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.

In addition to slowing down your body’s healing process, alcohol can also slow down your body’s ability to fight bacteria.

• Soda

Soda, or soft drinks, are often popular beverages among children and adults. However, soda may not be the best beverage for your oral health. Soda contains high amounts of acid and sugar, which can ruin your tooth enamel. In particular, the high acid content found in soda is harmful to the enamel of your teeth. Over time, the acid will wear down your enamel, causing your teeth to decay, change color, and even fall out.

To learn about the dental services we offer or to schedule an appointment with our dentist, you can call us from your nearest location or make a visit to our office closer to your convenient location. We will be happy to assist you further.