Worst Foods For Oral Health

Do you know that the food you eat can affect your oral health? Foods that contain sugar or starch (such as refined carbs) are often broken down by bacteria in the mouth, which can produce acids that eat away at the enamel. When the enamel is weakened, it can allow bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth and cause infections. Besides, foods that are acidic can lead to weakened enamel. So, ere is a list of food products you should avoid to maintain good oral health:

Worst Foods For Oral Health

  • Candy

Most types of candy, especially hard candies and lollipops, can damage your teeth. This is because candy is made of sugar and starch, which sticks to the enamel of your teeth, causing damage.

  • Soda

Though many people enjoy seltzer water, soda is actually one of the worst foods for your oral health. Soda contains acids that wear down tooth enamel, leading to cavities, infections, and other dental problems.

  • Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are one of the worst things you can put in your mouth. Filled with sugar and acids, they are terrible for your teeth. While drinking sports drinks in moderation will not cause any damage, drinking them regularly will increase your chances of getting cavities. If you do drink sports drinks, make sure to drink them through a straw and rinse with water afterward.

  • Alcohol

Alcohol can cause dry mouth, which contributes to bad breath. It also weakens teeth and makes them more susceptible to decay. Alcohol also interferes with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, which weakens bones and can lead to tooth loss.

Consuming alcohol can also put patients at risk for oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay.

  • Junk Food

When it comes to dental health, the foods you eat play a major role. Certain foods and drinks can seriously damage your teeth and mouth. The bacteria in your mouth thrive on these foods, causing plaque and tartar buildup, infected gums, and tooth decay.

  • Coffee

The caffeine in coffee can cause bad breath, and it can also stain your teeth. Try rinsing your mouth with water after you drink coffee to mitigate the effects.

  • Dried Fruit

Gums can become inflamed and swollen when exposed to dried fruit, particularly dried fruit that is sticky, such as gummy candies. These foods can stick to your teeth and cause a buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance that builds up on your teeth. If you don’t remove it, it can lead to gum disease, inflammation, and bad breath.

  • Ice

Eating ice is one of the worst things you can do for your dental health. It can cause damage to your enamel. It also increases your risk of dental issues like gum disease and tooth sensitivity. The ice is also too hard for your teeth. It will cause your teeth to chip and crack.

  • Sticky Foods

Sticky foods can get stuck in your teeth, potentially causing decay. Sticky candies like caramels, fruit snacks, gummies, and toffee are especially bad for your teeth because they stay in your mouth longer.

  • Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are extremely acidic and can eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Many citrus fruits also contain a lot of sugar, which increases the risk of cavities. You can still enjoy citrus fruits in moderation, but make sure to brush your teeth as soon as you finish eating.

Valley Dental Surgery & Implant Center offers expert dental care from our dental team led by Dr. Jamah. For more details and scheduling appointments, call us at (707) 532-2441. You can also book online or visit us directly at 4737 Sonoma Hwy B, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States.
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