Consuming certain foods and beverages can affect our oral health in various ways. Specifically, some types of food contribute to the development of tooth decay, also known as dental caries.
Dr. Gary Goldstein, a dentist based in Atlanta, explains which foods and drinks are responsible for damaging our teeth and gums.
«While regular brushing and flossing help keep our teeth strong and healthy, it's important to be aware of foods that can slowly and painfully rot our teeth,» says Dr. Gaolstein.
Drinks full of sugar
If we drink enough sugary beverages on a regular basis, this can quietly damage our teeth in the long term. Drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and sugary tea bring us closer to tooth decay.
«Sugar sticks to our teeth and promotes the growth of acid-producing bacteria, which leads to plaque buildup, which in turn causes tooth decay and discoloration,» warns Dr. Goldstein.
If we want to drink a sugary beverage, being meticulous about our oral hygiene immediately afterwards is essential for good dental health.
Sticky foods
This is something we may not have thought about, but when it comes to tooth decay, sticky foods such as candy or even dried fruit can gradually become the enemy of our teeth.
These foods stick between teeth and can be difficult to remove by brushing alone. They also often contain sugar, which can lead to tooth decay in the long term.
«To reduce the risk of tooth decay, choose healthier, non-sticky snacks such as vegetables, nuts, and cheese,» recommends Dr. Goldstein.
Acidic foods
Highly acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can weaken our enamel, even though they are healthy. If we eat acidic foods, we should rinse our mouths with water immediately afterwards to neutralize the acids.
Processed carbohydrates
Certain carbohydrates such as bread and potato chips can also lead to tooth decay.
The bacteria in our mouths feed on the sugar found in carbohydrates. These same bacteria can contribute to plaque buildup and tooth decay,» explains Dr. Goldstein.
So, we make sure to brush our teeth and use dental floss after consuming carbohydrates. We also choose healthier carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
At the end of the day, if we are concerned about potential tooth decay and want to better understand which foods and drinks are harmful to our oral health, we can always get more information by discussing our specific needs with our dentist.
