Most people know they should make good food choices to keep their body at a healthy weight and maintain good heart health. Did you also know that the foods you eat can have an impact on your teeth? Choosing foods that are not overly sugary or acidic will help your keep your teeth healthy, white and free from cavities or other problems. Making a few smart choices at the grocery store and enjoying sweets in moderation will help you to keep your enamel strong and teeth bright for years to come. Read on to understand which foods your dentists in North Edmonton suggest you should avoid.
5 Foods that Can Damage Your Teeth
When assessing how teeth-friendly foods are, keep in mind sugar content, acidity, and stickiness, all of which can wreak havoc on your enamel. For a healthy smile, avoid eating these foods or enjoy them in moderation:
- Apples – Crunchy apples can be hard on your teeth because of their high acid content. They are still a healthy snack though, so just be sure to rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after enjoying an apple.
- Bread – Bread often contains sugars, especially if you are eating processed white varieties. These sweeteners can cause bacteria to grow in the mouth and the soft, sticky nature of bread means a lot can get left behind on your teeth.
- Pickled Vegetables – Pickled veggies combine acidic vinegar and sugar in the brine, which can cause a lot of damage to your teeth. Brush an hour after enjoying pickles or other pickled vegetables to ensure that the brine doesn’t sit on your teeth for an extended period of time.
- Hard Candies – Not only the sugar content makes hard candies a troublemaker for teeth, but also the way we eat them. They are held in the mouth for an extended period of time, allowing them to coat teeth. Cough drops may soothe symptoms, but many also contain a lot of sugar, so try to find a sugar-free brand.
- Popcorn – Popcorn is notorious for wreaking havoc on braces, but it can also cause problems for people without them! The kernels have a tendency to get stuck between teeth, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you enjoy some popcorn with your next movie, make sure you rinse your mouth with water afterwards and take time to brush and floss.
Have more questions about which foods and other habits can help or harm your teeth? Visit Oxford Dental for a teeth cleaning! Our dentists in North Edmonton are currently accepting new patients and can answer your questions about dental health. From routine checkups to dental surgery and cosmetic dentistry, we offer a range of dental services to suit all your needs and can treat the whole family. Book your appointment with our dentists at our clinic in North Edmonton by calling 780-456-7009 or contact us online.