The foods you eat can have a major impact on your teeth and your oral health. Here are some foods to avoid or reduce for a healthy smile for years to come.
Starchy and sticky foods: potato chips and other starchy foods can stay on your teeth. If you choose to snack on these foods, be sure to floss extra-carefully that day to remove food particles, which can lead to plaque buildup and tooth damage. Sticky foods such as dried fruit can also bring harm to the mouth because they stick to your teeth. If you eat sticky foods, be sure to rinse your mouth with plain water afterward. Remember to brush and floss thoroughly after eating sticky food!
Sports drinks and energy drinks are usually designed to provide energy, or calories, and flavor. However, this can often mean a lot of sugar. In fact, sugar is the number one ingredient in most sports and energy drinks! Next time, make sure your drink is low in sugar–or better yet, drink plain water.
Citrus is delicious when added to a glass of water. However, frequent exposure to the acids present in citrus can lead to tooth damage, as it wears away the enamel. This causes teeth to be more susceptible to deterioration. Next time you reach for a squeeze of lemon, try plain water instead. If you have mouth sores, be careful of citrus fruit and juices, as they can irritate the sores.
Hard candy: Consistent exposure to sugar can be damaging to your teeth. Additionally, hard candies bring trouble as they can trigger dental emergencies such as a chipped or cracked tooth.
Ice may seem unimpeachable, as it is only plain water with no additives. But, ice is designed for cooling off drinks, not for chewing! Crunching ice can leave teeth vulnerable to dental emergencies like chipped or cracked teeth and damaged enamel.
If you’d like more advice, you can call CrossPointe Dental in Orem, Utah at 801-224-7337 to schedule an appointment with Damon P. Swenson. While occasional indulgence can be fun, reducing these foods can help ensure a happy, healthy smile for years to come!