The 5 worst foods for your teeth
We take care of our body by going to the gym and eating healthy food. We take care of our skin by washing, moisturising and wearing sunblock. But what about our teeth?
A dazzling smile is a universal symbol of health and beauty. Maintaining good oral hygiene and dental health is important for your appearance, but specifically - more important for your long-term health.
While brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups are essential components of oral care, your diet plays a huge role in the health of your teeth. Some foods can be out-and-out harmful to your pearly whites.
1. Sugar: a recipe for dental disaster
If anything is an enemy of your teeth, it’s sugar. When you consume sugary treats like sweets, biscuits, soft drinks and cake, the harmful bacteria in your mouth feast on the sugar and create acids that erode your tooth enamel. This process, known as demineralisation, weakens your teeth and can lead to cavities and tooth decay. The American Dental Association (ADA) highlights that excessive sugar consumption is a leading cause of tooth decay. Sticky candies like caramel and toffees not only contain sugars that promote bacterial growth but also cling to your teeth for an extended period, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
2. Sugar: a recipe for dental disaster
Speaking of weakening your teeth, food and drinks that contain lots of acid, such as citrus fruit, citrus juice and tomatoes can wreak havoc on your teeth. Acid softens the enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to erosion and sensitivity.
3. Salty/savoury foods
Don’t assume that salty snacks are any better. Potato chips and other starchy snacks may not be sweet, but they are loaded with hidden dangers. As you munch on chips, the starches break down into sugar, creating a feast for bacteria in your mouth. The particles can also become lodged between your teeth, leading to plaque build-up.
4. Alcohol
Indulging in excessive alcohol consumption can leave an unwelcome mark on your dental health. One of the not-so-fun side effects of drinking is a condition called xerostomia, or in simpler terms, "dry mouth." Dry mouth may sound like a minor inconvenience, but it's a silent saboteur of your oral wellbeing. Saliva serves as a natural guardian for our teeth, diligently rinsing away harmful bacteria and acids that tend to set up camp in your mouth after meals. It's like the tooth fairy, but with a mop and bucket. However, when you overindulge in alcohol, your body can become dehydrated, and this dehydration can put your saliva production on pause. With the saliva faucet turned off, harmful substances stick around longer, creating a welcoming haven for dental problems to flourish.
5. Carbonated sodas
Carbonated sodas are a common beverage choice for many, but they can be a fizzing dental nightmare. These drinks are often loaded with two damaging substances: sugar and acidity. Just like the sugary sweets mentioned earlier, sodas provide a happy playground for harmful oral bacteria, leading to acid production and enamel erosion. What's even more concerning is that the acidity in carbonated sodas is double trouble for your teeth. It softens the enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to the erosive effects of sugary treats or other acidic foods.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.