There are some foods that can stain and even damage the enamel of your teeth, and that should be enjoyed only in moderation. If you do enjoy these foods and beverages, make sure to thoroughly rinse, preferably brush, and floss afterwards to avoid the potential damage that these foods can do over the long term.
Be wary of the following foods:
- Crackers. The problem with crackers is that the chemical makeup breaks down into simple sugars, which then get stuck between teeth due to the cracker's texture. Be sure to brush and floss after eating them.
- Sugary drinks. Don't be fooled: juice and sports drinks have just as much sugar as many carbonated sodas and soft drinks. Always rinse your mouth with water after drinking these refreshments to prevent the sugar from remaining on your teeth and causing potential decay.
- Hard candy. A good example of a food to avoid is hard candy. If you allow these sugary sweets to dissolve in your mouth, you are basically marinating your mouth in sugar; if you bite or chew the candy, you risk dental trauma and potentially serious injury to your teeth.
- Red wine. Red wine is primarily sugar, so it is best to rinse thoroughly after drinking. However, red wine also has the potential for staining the teeth, so if you are headed to a tasting, bring your toothbrush and a little baking soda.
- Citrus fruits. Another food that can cause damage to your teeth's delicate enamel is citrus. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, can cling to the enamel and cause a corrosive effect on your teeth.
- Gummy candy. It is a good idea to avoid eating gummy candy – period. The soft, sticky texture is perfect for getting stuck in the crevices of your teeth and causing decay.
- Dried fruits. Many dried fruits, like apricots, pineapple, and dates, have the same texture as gummy candy, which should be avoided. If you do enjoy dried fruits in moderation, be sure to floss after eating.
- Pickles. The vinegar brine is what makes pickles potentially damaging to your teeth. The acid in the pickle juice can cause deterioration to the enamel of your teeth, especially if you like drinking the juice!
Enjoy anything in moderation, but be wary that these foods can do damage to your teeth over time or even cause tooth trauma if eaten regularly. Talk to your dental provider about the best foods for good oral health as well as other foods to avoid. Contact a company like Belgrade Dental Associates for more info.
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