Brushing and flossing aren’t enough for your teeth to be healthy. What you eat and drink matters!
Your oral health depends on what food you consume, just as much as your daily routine so it’s important to know what foods to avoid unless you want cavities! Check out the list below:
1. Bread
What do a dentist and fitness expert have in common? They both think you should ditch bread!
Think back to the last time you had a sandwich. Did you feel tired and slow afterward? This is because when bread breaks down it turns from starch into sugar, the number one culprit for cavities.
And when bread gets stuck between your teeth, it wears out your enamel!
Both abs and healthy teeth are made in the kitchen, so next time you’re in the mood for a carb, pick a whole-wheat alternative.
2. Candy
Hard candies take a long time to dissolve, meaning the sugar will stay longer in your mouth, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay. If you decide to bite and break it, it could crack a tooth!
Plus, sour candies have many different types of acidities that are harmful to your teeth. Trade the candy in for dark chocolate or some cubed fruit.
3. Ice
Chewing on ice is just as harmful as chewing a hard candy. Both are hard on your teeth and could damage your enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay.
Let the ice melt in your mouth, or try crunching on other snacks like baby carrots, or frozen fruit.
4. Potato Chips
These pose the same issue bread does. Everybody knows potatoes are starchy, which means when your saliva breaks down a chip in your mouth, it turns into sugar. When it gets stuck in between your teeth, it helps feed the bacteria that will harm your teeth.
Make sure to floss well after eating chips.
5. Citrus fruits
Acidic foods and drinks are harmful to your teeth, including fruits! Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in Vitamin C, but also high in acidity. If you don’t have them in moderation, you’ll be leaving your teeth exposed to bacteria.
After you’ve had a citrusy snack, make sure to rinse your mouth well with water to reduce the negative impacts.
If you want to protect your pearly whites, you need to cut back on these foods – your overall health will thank you! Just be sure to floss and brush your teeth daily, as well as visit your dentist every 6 months.
Is it time for your dental check-up? Book an appointment and we’ll be happy to get your oral health on the right track!
