People say that you become what you eat. And there is no better place to view that than in your mouth. This is because a range of bad foods in terms of teeth health can contribute to plaque development, harming your teeth’s health.
Plaque, a sticky film made up of bacteria, helps tooth decay and gum disease. Following a meal or snack high in sugar, the bacteria release acids that destroy tooth enamel. Cavities can form as the enamel worsens.
Cavities can result in discomfort, difficulty biting, and tooth abscesses. And your plaque will harden into tartar if you don’t clean or floss your teeth. Tartar above the gum line can cause gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease.
Is there a way to prevent plaque from destroying your mouth? In addition to cleaning your teeth at least twice a day, flossing, and scheduling routine dental checkups, try to limit or avoid the items listed below:
Ice
Ice may only be frozen water, but it may seriously harm your teeth and gums. Chewing on hard objects, like ice, can damage your tooth enamel and cause a dental emergency if you chip or shatter your teeth unintentionally. It’s best just to drink water in its liquid form, as good advice.
Sugar & Sugary Foods
Sugar is one of the biggest foods that cause poor dental health. The sugar on the surface of your teeth is broken down by plaque and bacteria. Then it releases acid that damages your teeth and wears away the enamel. As a result, cavities are more likely to form.
Tea & Coffee
Coffee and tea may be healthy beverage options when drunk in their natural forms. Sadly, a lot of people can’t help but add sugar. Tea and coffee with caffeine can also cause mouth dryness. Regular coffee and tea use can also discolour your teeth. If you consume, remember to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and limiting your intake of extras.
Alcohol
Many may know that drinking alcohol isn’t exactly healthy. But did you know that you dry out your mouth when you drink? A dry mouth lacks saliva, which we need to keep teeth healthy. Saliva wipes away food leftovers and keeps food from sticking to your teeth. Even the early stages of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral diseases can be repaired with it. Drink a lot of water, and use fluoride rinses and oral hydration products to keep your mouth moisturized.
Dried Fruits
It’s common knowledge that foods like raisins, dried apricots, and fruit roll-ups are examples of wholesome, nutritious snacks that are healthier for teeth than candy. But because the fruits were dried up, the sugars in them were quite concentrated. Additionally, their chewy texture makes them more likely to stick to teeth, giving the bacteria more time to harm them.
Soft Drinks
If you drink diet or sugar-free soda, you might think you’re safe, but that is not the case. The acid in soft drinks damages the enamel on your teeth. If at all possible, stay away from soft drinks altogether. The acid in soda will make your enamel more sensitive to abrasion, so if you drink one, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
We don’t advise entirely avoiding these meals and beverages, simply reserving them for rare occasions. After meals, wash your mouth as much as possible and floss if you feel food between your teeth. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us to get the best dental services in Summerhill, Toronto.
