Worst Foods For Oral Health

There are certain food groups that are good for your teeth and can help improve your oral health. Food that is good for your teeth includes foods that are high in calcium, like cheese, milk, and yogurt. These types of foods can help maintain healthy bones and teeth. On the other hand, there are certain foods and beverages that can harm our oral health. Read on to know more about them:

• Ice

Ice is one of the worst foods for your mouth. Even chewing on ice can crack or chip your teeth. When you chew on ice, it forces your jaw muscles to work harder than normal. This can increase the risk of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD causes severe jaw pain, headaches, and earaches.

• Popcorn

While popcorn might seem healthy to you, it’s one of the worst foods for oral health. It’s high in sugar and starch, and chewing can fuel bacteria growth. Not to mention, it’s also tough on teeth.

• Hard Candy

Hard candy is full of sugar, which is bad for your teeth. The sugar sticks to your teeth, and bacteria in your mouth break it down, producing acid. This acid wears away your tooth enamel, causing tooth decay. Hard candy is also sticky, which encourages plaque buildup, tartar, and cavities.

• Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are very acidic and can harm enamel and gum tissue. The sugar in them, especially when consumed in large amounts, is also bad for teeth.

• Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are acidic and contain a lot of sugar, so they’re one of the worst foods for your oral health. These fruits contribute to enamel erosion, which causes tooth sensitivity. Additionally, the acid in citrus fruits can also lead to enamel erosion over time.

• Soda

Soda is one of the most harmful beverages for your oral health. It is loaded with sugar, which feeds the bacteria that cause decay and cavities. Soda also promotes dry mouth, which makes it easier for bacteria to thrive. If you are craving a cold beverage, choose a sugar-free option.

• Wine

Red wine is one of the worst things you can put into your body when it comes to dental health. Red wine has acids that harm the enamel and can lead to staining. The sugar contained in wine can also turn into plaque. If you do enjoy a glass of red wine, make sure to brush your teeth right afterward.

• Coffee

Coffee is one of the worst foods for your oral health because it’s highly acidic. Acid breaks down your enamel and can lead to tooth erosion. The condition can cause your teeth to become sensitive and discolored. If you do drink a cup of coffee, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after.

• Tomatoes

Tomatoes are delicious in salads and on sandwiches, but they can be terrible for your oral health. Tomatoes contain high levels of acid, which can irritate your gums and eat away at your enamel. Tomatoes can be even more damaging when eaten in large amounts. So, enjoy them as part of a healthy diet, but limit any tomato consumption to a few times a week.

The prosthodontist in Atlanta, GA, and the team are happy to explain the dental treatments offered at the practice in detail. If you would like to learn more about our dental services or dental care tips, we invite you to give us a call at (404) 255-4575 and schedule a consultation.