Your oral health is vital for your overall wellbeing. One way to take care of your dental health is to check your diet. After all, “you are what you eat,” and when it comes to those pearly whites, it’s crucial that you know which foods to avoid to prevent tooth damage. Here are some of the worst foods for your teeth:
1. Ice
Chewing on ice isn’t really a good idea. If you frequently do this, then you could be harming your teeth. Ice is a hard substance that can leave your teeth vulnerable and may damage its enamel.
2. Citrus
Citrus fruits such as oranges are good for the body, but too much can harm your teeth. The high acid content of citrus fruits can lead to enamel erosion that will leave the teeth susceptible to decay over time. After consuming citrus foods, make sure to wash the acids down with plenty of water.
3. Coffee
Coffee can be a healthy beverage, and most people can’t function without their daily shot of caffeine. A cup of joe can be harmful to the teeth due to its sugar content that can cause stains. Too much caffeine can also dry the mouth. If you drink a lot of coffee every day, take it down a notch. If you can, skip on the sugar and cream as well. Chasing a cup of coffee with plenty of water is a great way to keep the sugar and the caffeine down to a minimum.
4. Soda
We all know that soda is terrible for health. Its high sugar content can cause a build-up of bacteria on the teeth, which can lead to plaque. Not to mention, sodas are acidic and can also dry your mouth.
5. Alcohol
It is known that alcohol can cause dehydration and dry the mouth. If you drink a lot of alcohol, the flow of your saliva will be significantly affected. This can lead to tooth decay and other oral infections such as gum disease. Next time, drink moderately.
6. Bread
Chewing bread makes your saliva break down the starches into sugar. What happens after this? It becomes paste-like and it can get stuck into the crevices of your teeth. It could be difficult to remove, and when left for a long time, it can cause cavities.
7. Potato Chips
Every now and then, snacking on potato chips is a great way to de-stress and simply indulge. There is something oddly comforting about eating junk foods. However, potato chips are loaded with starch that turns into sugar an can be trapped between your teeth.
There’s nothing wrong with eating chips once in a while, but make sure to floss your teeth afterward to remove trapped particles.
Conclusion
These are the worst foods for your teeth. However, that doesn’t mean you should not eat them. All you need to do practice moderation, especially if you’re consuming unhealthy foods. Moreover, following good dental hygiene can help keep your oral health in check.
Our best cosmetic teeth dentists can provide you with the best dental care to make your smile brighter than ever. Schedule an appointment with us today in Chattanooga!