When it comes to oral health, a balanced diet is key. Not only is eating well good for your body, but it’s also one of the best ways to keep your teeth healthy. Sadly, there are lots of foods that cause oral health problems. Some foods and drinks put your teeth at higher risk of decay, while others can cause tooth staining.
Read on to learn more about five of the worst foods for oral health.
- Candies
One of the worst foods for oral health is sugary or acidic candies. Candy is full of sugar that feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to plaque and cavities. Hard candies also pose a risk because they can break your teeth. And, of course, hard candies can cause damage to the soft tissues of your mouth.
- Dried Fruits
Dried fruit is sticky and chewy, so it gets stuck between your teeth for long periods of time. This can cause plaque and tartar buildup. Pair this with sugary dried fruit, and you’ve got an unhealthy snack that can damage your teeth and gums.
- Sugary Drinks
Soft drinks are some of the worst foods for oral health. One of the most harmful things about soft drinks is that they contain a lot of simple sugars. As you probably know, sugar feeds the bacteria that produce cavities and gum disease.
- Soda
Soda is bad for your teeth because it contains phosphoric acid. This acid wears away at the enamel on your teeth, making them weaker and more susceptible to cavities. Soda may also be harder on your teeth than diet soda. The citric acid in colas, for example, is weaker than phosphoric acid. But cola also tends to be more acidic than diet soda.
- Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruits, and oranges are all acidic. The acid weakens the teeth and dissolves the enamel. Brushing your teeth immediately after consuming an acidic food can help, but the acid still does some damage.
- Sports Drinks
Sports drinks are advertised as being healthy, but in reality, they are just as bad for your teeth as soda. The sugar and acidity both damage the teeth.
- Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like potato chips, bread, and pasta are also acidic. When starch breaks down in the mouth, it turns into sugar. The bacteria eat the starch, producing acid that dissolves the enamel.
Our dentists at Rand Center for Dentistry in Flanders, NJ, provide the best dentistry solutions and the best dental care for patients. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call (973) 370-8917.
