There are certain foods and drinks that just don’t do any favors for your teeth. Sure, you can have them from time to time, but for the most part, you’ll want to stay clear of them as much as possible. So, which foods are bad for your teeth and which are good? Keep reading!
Foods and drinks that are bad for your teeth
Here’s a breakdown of some common foods and drinks that can negatively impact your dental health:
Candies
Hard and sticky candies can be especially harmful to your teeth. They contain a lot of added sugar, which is associated with a greater risk of gum disease. Added sugar intake is also a risk factor for developing cavities. So, you’ll want to avoid candies as much as possible.
Sugary drinks
Beverages like soda, sweetened coffee, and sports drinks are packed with sugar. They spread cavity-promoting bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, which can break down tooth enamel. They are also a main dietary factor in dental erosion.
Alcohol
Heavy alcohol consumption can be extremely damaging to multiple aspects of your health, not just oral. For example, it’s associated with the risk of developing breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and cancers related to the oropharynx, larynx, and oesophagus. In regards to how heavy alcohol consumption can affect your oral health, it increases the risk of cavities, tooth wear, staining, bad breath, and gum disease. So, make sure you only consume alcohol in moderation.
Starchy foods
Starchy foods, especially ones with a high glycemic index (GI) can also be bad for your oral health. This includes foods like white bread, instant mashed potatoes, cereals, and white rice. These kinds of foods can increase the risk of developing cavities.
Takeaway: Limiting your intake of these foods and drinks can protect your teeth and keep them healthy. Avoid them as much as you can, but if you do consume them, do it in moderation.
Foods and drinks that are great for your teeth
While there are foods you definitely want to avoid as much as possible, there are others that can help keep your teeth healthy if you incorporate them into your diet. Here are a few:
Almonds
Almonds are a great snack for your teeth because they are low in sugar and packed with calcium and protein, both of which are essential for strengthening teeth and bones. They also help remove plaque from your teeth as you chew them.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium, Vitamins A and C, and folic acid, which strengthen your tooth enamel. The fiber content in these greens also encourages saliva production, which decreases your mouth’s acidity and naturally cleanses the mouth.
Fruits
While foods with added sugars are not a healthy option for your teeth, foods with natural sugars can be, like fruits. Fruits are filled with fiber and minerals, which stimulate salivation in the mouth and protect your teeth and gums. A fruit that is particularly good for your oral health are strawberries, which contain malic acid and can act as a natural tooth whitener.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium more efficiently—crucial for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon also support overall oral health by reducing inflammation in the gums, helping to prevent gum disease.
Dairy products
Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk are rich in calcium and phosphorus, which help repair damage to your teeth. They also contain casein proteins which form a protective layer on your teeth and protect your enamel from decay. As an added bonus, they help to stimulate saliva production, which also helps protect your teeth.
Foods with fluoride
Fluoride is a powerful mineral for your teeth. It helps to inhibit and reverse tooth decay and helps stimulate bone formation. So, consuming foods and drinks that contain fluoride can do wonders for your teeth. Some of these products include shrimp, grapes, raisins, potatoes, and black tea.
Takeaway: Eating a balanced diet rich in these foods can strengthen your teeth and gums, and promote a healthier mouth overall, so if you’re not already, start incorporating them into your diet!
Visit Dr. Ruiz & Associates, Inc for a dentist in Burbank, CA
Do you have more dental-related questions? Well, come visit our office, Dr. Ruiz & Associates Inc, to consult with a dentist in Burbank in person! Dr. Ruiz is a renowned dentist, educator, and researcher who is known as a pioneer in supra-gingival minimally invasive dentistry, or “above the gums dentistry.” This is a healthier form of dentistry that protects soft oral tissues and produces long-lasting, beautiful results. Check out our Google reviews and schedule an appointment with us today!
