8 Types of Foods and Beverages That Aren’t Doing Your Teeth Any Favors
According to recent reports from the medical sector, an estimated 2.3 billion adults have some level of tooth decay. Approximately 530 million children have cavities in their permanent teeth. Almost 50 percent of people between the ages of 30 and 65 are living with gum disease. Those figures only encompass the reported cases. Many more are suffering from conditions like these but aren’t getting the dental care they need.
Causes of Dental Issues
It’s safe to say that most people realize failing to brush and floss properly and avoiding twice-annual dental checkups and cleanings can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions and medications can cause problems as well. In many cases, though, the foods we eat can also harm our teeth and gums. If you’re experiencing dental issues, don’t hesitate to contact a Family Dentist Near Me. In the meantime, take a look at some of the foods and beverages that may be causing more damage than you think.
1) Soda
Carbonated beverages are loaded with sugars and acids that can damage the teeth. They also tend to stick to the teeth and linger there, so their effects could last well after the soda runs out. At the same time, they dry out your mouth. As such, they reduce the amount of saliva that’s available to dilute the effects of the acids and sugars. Dark sodas also stain the teeth, so they actually have multifaceted effects.
2) Sweet Treats
Most of us spend our entire lives hearing about how detrimental candy can be to our teeth. It’s not just a myth. Sugar causes tooth decay. It also feeds bacteria that naturally live in the mouth and causes them to multiply. This can further exacerbate tooth decay and lead to gum disease. Sticky candies like gummies and caramel are particularly troublesome.
3) Potato Chips
Many people don’t think of crunchy, salty potato chips as being harmful to the teeth, but they are. They contain considerable amounts of starch that actually turns into sugar while it’s being broken down by saliva.
4) Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are packed with sugars and acids. They also lead to dehydration, which reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth. As is the case with carbonated beverages, alcohol attacks the teeth from multiple angles.
5) White Bread
It’s no secret that white bread is a significant source of carbohydrates. Those carbs are transformed into sugars that can stick to the teeth and get trapped in between them. When that happens, they simply sit there and eat away at your teeth.
6) Sports Drinks
Sports drinks are great for replenishing electrolytes after rigorous workouts and spending excessive amounts of time in the heat. Unfortunately, many of them are also filled with sugars and acids. Because of that, they can damage the teeth and gums.
7) Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits offer numerous health benefits, and they’re wonderful substitutes for cookies and candies. They also contain a great deal of tooth-damaging acid, though. This is true of fruit juices as well, and many fruit juices have exorbitant amounts of added sugar. Consider rinsing your mouth out with water after enjoying citrus fruits and juices.
8) Ice
Since it’s cold, crunchy, and refreshing, ice can be a satisfying snack. It’s also completely free of sugars, acids, calories, and fats. Still, ice cubes can cause chipped or broken teeth. They can loosen crowns and displace fillings as well.
Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Healthy
Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist help keep your teeth and gums in top-notch shape. Those measures may not be enough to prevent the damage some foods and beverages can cause, though. Take care of your teeth and avoid sugary, acidic, starch-filled foods and drinks, and use caution when choosing ice as a snack. Doing so will help keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.