Dental health is more crucial than many realize, with research linking poor oral hygiene to serious conditions like cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Neglecting your teeth not only risks cavities and decay but can also lead to mental health challenges from persistent tooth pain, warns Dr. Kim Capehart, chair of General Dentistry at Augusta University.
Certain foods and drinks are particularly harmful to teeth, some eroding enamel while others promote cavities. Here’s what dentists advise against:
Citrus fruits: Although rich in vitamin C, their high acidity weakens enamel, making teeth vulnerable.
Ice: Chewing ice can cause tooth fractures and worsen sensitivity.
Sticky candy: Sweets like caramel and gummy worms stick to teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Bread and crackers: These carbohydrates turn into sugar, feeding harmful bacteria that cause decay.
Soda and energy drinks: Loaded with sugar and acidity, these drinks can damage teeth as severely as drug use in extreme cases.
Coffee: Its acidity and staining properties, combined with added sugars, make it a dental hazard.
What to eat instead
To support dental health, dentists recommend crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery, which naturally clean teeth while chewing. Apples and cheese are also excellent choices, with cheese providing calcium and neutralizing acidity.
For beverages, water, milk, and green tea maintain healthy pH levels and reduce plaque buildup.
Additional tips
Rinse your mouth with water or an alkaline mouthwash after eating acidic foods. Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol can inhibit cavity-causing bacteria and stimulate saliva production, helping to neutralize acidity.
By avoiding these harmful foods and adopting better oral hygiene practices, you can protect your teeth and overall health.