The foods you eat can affect your oral health. Some foods can strengthen dental enamel while some can harm it and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Here are a few foods and beverages that are bad for our oral health.
- Alcohol
Alcohol contains high amounts of sugar and acid that can destroy tooth enamel and irritate or damage gum tissues. It is also very acidic and can erode the enamel of your teeth over time. This means it poses more harm to your oral health than good and should be avoided as much as possible. If alcohol is regularly consumed, it can lead to dry mouth, which can cause bad breath and tooth decay. If you do consume alcohol, it is best to follow up with a glass of water to help wash away unwanted sugars from the mouth. You can also rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to decrease the effects.
- Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated beverages are extremely bad for your teeth because they’re high in acid and sugar. These sugars and acids erode the enamel of your teeth and cause tooth decay. The sugar in the beverage feeds the bacteria in your mouth that cause cavities. Drinking from a straw can help protect your teeth from the sugar and acid in the drink. This reduces your risk for cavities.
- Ice
Yes, ice is tasty; however, it should be avoided. It can damage tooth enamel and cause teeth to chip or crack.
- Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are highly acidic and can cause the enamel to erode easily. The acid in citrus fruits can also soften up the tooth structure making it more vulnerable to decay. It is best to eat these fruits in moderation after a meal or with other foods that can neutralize their acidity.
- Starchy Food
Starchy foods can stick to your teeth and form plaque if not properly cleaned off. The carbs in these foods also break down into sugar that can feed the bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria produces acid that attacks your tooth enamel as well as your gums. Over time, this can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. It’s typically better to eat your starches after a meal or snack rather than as a meal on their own. This is because the saliva produced during meals helps clean the food off of your teeth and neutralize the acids produced by eating carbohydrates.
- Dried Fruits
While dried apples and strawberries are healthy for your body as a whole, they are terrible for your teeth. They are sticky and will cling to your teeth and wreak havoc. However, if you must eat dried fruits, rinse with water or brush your teeth immediately afterward.
To learn more tips for good oral care, call (719) 471-1900 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, at 1705 N Weber St, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.
