Foods to Avoid for Better Dental Health : Tips By Dentist Hamilton
Your diet can speak volumes when it comes to a healthy smile. Some foods and drinks will be worse for you than others, causing problems such as cavities, tooth erosion, and gum disease. In this blog post, we will work through some sorts of foods to avoid or consume less of for healthier teeth and gums, thanks to Tips by Dentist Hamilton.
1. Sugary Sweets and Candies
The major causes are sweets and sticky candies. Your mouth's bacteria produce acid in response to sugar, which erodes tooth enamel and leads to cavities. Since hard candies remain in your tongue longer and raise your risk of chipping, they are particularly harmful.
Instead:
Limit sugary foods to social indulgence only, and use sugar-free products. If you want a sweetened food, brush right after or gargle and rinse after eating to minimize your teeth' exposure to sugar.
2. Fizzy Soda Drinks
Sodas are sour, so sweet. The acids and sugars in these soft drinks can wear away your enamel, so that your teeth start to rot more easily. Even sugar-free sodas contain acids that chew away at the enamel.
Instead:
Of course, water is the best liquid ever for your teeth. If you have to consume soda, try using a straw to minimize contacts as much as possible with your teeth and then rinse your mouth with water.
3. Sticky and Dried Fruits
Although most fruits are good for you, some dried fruits, like figs, apricots, and raisins, might be harmful. These sticky sweets wind up sticking to your teeth and storing sugar in difficult-to-reach areas, which raises your risk of developing cavities. Because they contain more water, which effectively washes away part of the sugars, fresh fruits are far superior.
Instead :
If you enjoy dried fruits, always brush and floss later or choose fresh fruits that wouldn't stick to your teeth much in the first place.
4. Acidic Foods and Beverages
Acidic foods, such citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dressings, can dissolve the minerals that make up enamel, which will cause your enamel to deteriorate and increase your sensitivity. Although these meals are high in nutrients, over time, their acid can gradually erode the enamel.
Instead:
Consume acidic foods sparingly and in combination with less acidic foods. This will reduce the possibility of damage to your enamel. In the event that you eat acidic foods, waiting at least half an hour before brushing will also assist shield your enamel.
5. Alcohol-Based Drinks
Alcohol dries up the glands which produce saliva and the mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in dental health through removing food particles from the mouth while lowering the formation of acid. If saliva production reduces, your mouth has the ability to retain bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
6. Tea and coffee, in particular when sugar is added
Tea and coffee don't directly harm your teeth on its own, but they can when you add sugar or syrup. In addition, both are prone to forming stains on your teeth over time.
Instead:
Limit added sugars in your coffee or tea, and try to drink water afterwards to rinse your mouth. Regular dental cleanings can help reduce staining and keep your smile bright.
7. Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like bread, pasta, and potato chips can quickly break down into sugars when chewed. These starches often stick between teeth and promote bacteria growth, leading to plaque buildup and cavities.
Instead:
Chew starchy foods with water, so you can displace the food material, and maybe brush and floss after eating.
8. Ice
In everyday actions most people undertake, chipping or crunching ice is most likely to cause no harm but as it makes its way into your teeth cavities, it causes serious damage. The hard surface of ice chips or crushes at best your enamel, causing tooth sensitivity or in extreme cases, the need for dental repairs.
Instead:
If you need something to chew on, try sugar-free gum. Avoid using your teeth to chew up ice or any other hard food products.
Conclusion:
Not consuming or reducing these may help you quite a bit regarding your dental health. We, believe in preventing oral health care and want to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. You need regular dental check-ups for the earliest detection of potential issues and maintenance of your good dental health. For more information, please refer to the full blog above on foods to avoid for better dental health and consult with your dentist for personalized advice.
For more information about your smile or to book an appointment, simply contact our Hamilton dental clinic today!
Disclaimer: This blog's content is not meant to be medical or dental advice; rather, it is meant to be used for general informational reasons. If you have any questions about your oral health or particular dental conditions, you should always speak with a skilled dentist or healthcare provider. The advice given in this blog does not replace a licensed dentist's individualized care, diagnosis, or treatment.
