The 4 Worst Foods for Your Teeth
Professional whitening, cleaning, and cosmetic dentistry can enhance the sparkle in your smile and support your overall dental health. But an even cheaper and more effective way to keep your teeth beautiful is to watch what you eat, in addition to brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. We discuss foods that can negatively impact your dental health when consuming them excessively.
Citrus
Citrus is an excellent source of vitamin C but can be highly acidic, which erodes teeth. Grapefruit and lemon juice have some of the highest acid levels, much worse than orange juice. To get your nutrients and preserve your enamel, look for store-bought juices fortified with teeth-friendly calcium and vitamin D.
Pickles
Most people don’t consider pickles potentially harmful, but eating too many can wear out your teeth. The high acidity in the vinegar is the culprit. If you love pickles, you don’t have to quit cold turkey. Just enjoy them in moderation.
Sports Drinks and Soda
Soda has the equivalent of nearly 10 teaspoons of sugar per 12-ounce serving. Sugar is also the top ingredient in most sports drinks. Check the label to be sure that your drink is low in sugar. Better yet, stick with water.
Chewy and Hard Candy
Regarding chewy candy like taffy and licorice, the stickier the sweets, the worse they are for your teeth. Chewy candy sticks to your teeth longer, allowing bacteria to feast on the sugar for extended periods. Sour, acidic candies are incredibly acidic, which will wear on your teeth in addition to the sugar.
Hard candy can be problematic, too. It doesn’t stick to your teeth as much but dissolves slowly, giving bacteria more time to wreak havoc. Biting down on hard candy can also cause chips and cracks.
Cleaning and Whitening Services from Your Local Dentist
At Beckham Square Family Dental, we prioritize supporting good oral health habits to last a lifetime. If you have questions about avoiding unhealthy foods or other ways to enhance your dental health, we’re always available with the information you need. You can also schedule your next visit by calling 513.489.7800 or using our contact form online.
