The saying: “you are what you eat” is greatly associated with the health of your teeth. In order to truly fight tooth decay it is important to brush and floss your teeth daily and get semi-annual office cleanings and checkups. In addition to all of these things, you also need to watch what you’re eating. Yes, your diet has a lot to do with your teeth!
The foods you eat may be harming your teeth in ways that you wouldn’t even imagine. Check out the following most common foods that could be harmful to your teeth:
Fruits: Keeping in mind that fruits contain sugar, you would automatically think that they’re bad for your teeth. Fresh fruits do indeed contain sugar, but this type of sugar does not ruin your teeth. However, dried fruits can cause tooth decay because they release free sugars when dried.
Starches: Do you know what the primary enemy of tooth decay is? It’s acid! If you’re eating foods like bread, rice and potatoes, you’re putting yourself at risk of getting tooth decay. These types of foods when broken down by enzymes release glucose and other simple sugars. Once this process occurs, the oral bacteria in your mouth can produce acid.
Acidic foods and beverages: Foods and beverages that contain high amounts of acid are leading you into a world of tooth decay. Chronic mouth acidity turns the enamel’s mineral content soft, which causes your teeth to eventually erode. Foods and beverages such as: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, sodas, sports and energy drinks contain a high amount of acid.
Limiting the intake of acidic foods and beverages, free sugars and sugar-added foods is not only great for overall nutrition; it will also keep tooth decay away. Another way to make sure the health of your teeth is great is by increasing the intake of whole grains, dairy products, vegetables and fresh fruit.