It is essential to brush and floss regularly, but did you know that what you eat also affects your teeth? Eating certain foods can make it easier for bacteria to attach to the surface of your teeth and cause cavities. Here are the 13 worst foods for your teeth.
Candy
Candy is one of the worst foods for your teeth, especially if it is a sticky or hard candy that sits on your teeth for a long time. The sugar in candy feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup and decay. Also, sucking on hard candy can chip or crack teeth.
Soda
Carbonated beverages contain high levels of sugar and acid, which can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to decay and discoloration. Even diet soda can be bad for your teeth since they contain citric acid.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks may seem like a healthy choice for staying hydrated, but they often contain high amounts of sugar and acid, which can lead to tooth decay and erosion. If you must consume sports drinks, gulp them down and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Chewy Granola Bars
Granola bars are often marketed as a healthy snack, but wide varieties contain a lot of added sugar and are sticky, so they can easily stick to your teeth and cause decay. Choose granola bars that are low in sugar and avoid sticky varieties.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is often considered a healthy snack but can be bad for your teeth. Dried fruit has high sugar concentrations and is sticky, so it can stick to your teeth and cause tooth decay. If you do choose to eat dried fruit, brush your teeth afterward.
Ice Cubes
If you choose to have ice in your drink or eat ice directly, make sure it is crushed and not in hard chunks that could damage your teeth enamel. When possible, opt for frozen fruits instead of plain ice cubes. Besides, the cold temperature of the ice can cause tooth sensitivity. Avoid chewing on ice and choose a softer alternative instead.
Chips and Crackers
Chips and crackers contain high levels of starch, which can break down into sugar and feed the bacteria in your mouth. They are often highly processed foods that lack nutritional value. If you eat chips or crackers, drink water afterward to help clear some of the starch.
Coffee and Tea
Drinking coffee or tea can stain your teeth over time, leading to discoloration and yellowing. Some coffee drinks may also contain high sugar levels, which can lead to decay. After having your coffee or tea, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with water to lower the risk of tooth decay.
Sugary Sauces
Sugary sauces, such as BBQ sauce and ketchup, contain high levels of sugar that can cause tooth decay. Additionally, the acid in these sauces can erode your enamel over time. Always rinse your mouth with water after eating sugary sauces.
Popcorn
Popcorn can get stuck in between teeth and lead to cavities. Popcorn also has added butter or salt which can increase the risk of gum disease. After eating popcorn, floss your teeth and be sure to brush them thoroughly.
Citrus Fruits
While citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C, they can be bad for your teeth. Citrus fruits contain high levels of acid that can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to decay and discoloration. If you eat citrus fruits, drink plenty of water afterward to neutralize the acids.
Starchy Vegetables
Starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn can cause decay if not brushed away quickly. These veggies can breed bacteria and lead to cavities. Brush your teeth thoroughly after eating them to minimize the risk of damage.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages contain high levels of sugar, which can feed the bacteria in your mouth and lead to tooth decay. Some alcoholic drinks, such as red wine, can stain your teeth over time. Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages or drink water afterward to help clear away some of the sugar.
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