Food is one of the great joys in life. However, not all foods love us as much as we love them. This is true in regards to weight, cholesterol, blood sugar, heart health, and even oral health. Many dental problems are the result of genetics, but some can be a direct result of the food you eat. Here are 7 foods that can damage your oral health that you might want to be aware of if you have dental problems.
1. Soft Drinks
Soft drinks have acidic properties to them. This acid eats at your enamel in ways that are similar to drugs like methamphetamine. It also reduces the amount of moisture in your mouth. Limit the amount of soda in your diet, and don’t brush your time immediately after drinking pop.
2. Wine
Wine has been shown to have very real health benefits. Plus, who doesn’t like the buzz after a couple of glasses of wine on a night out with friends? However, that doesn’t mean it’s good for your teeth. Both red and white wine have acid. Also, red wine contains tannins that can make your teeth yellow. If you do enjoy wine, be careful to limit your consumption. Also, brush your teeth before drinking to eliminate how much acid can stick to your teeth.
3. Sugary Sweets
Many people enjoy the occasional sweet treat. For people who enjoy a lot of sweets, you will see it when they smile. The sugar attacks the teeth. Items that stay in your mouth for extended periods of time, such as lollipops or hard candies, are especially damaging. Brush your teeth after eating sugary treats whenever possible.
4. Citrus Fruits
Oranges, limes, pineapples, and grapefruits are very acidic. While these fruits may be acidic, they are bad for your teeth. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t ever eat any acidic fruits. However, you want to limit the consumption. It can also be a very good idea to rinse your mouth out with water when you are done.
5. Pickles
Pickles are made by putting cucumbers in vinegar for an extended period of time. The vinegar saturates the pickle well after the pickling process is over. It doesn’t help that most pickles have a surprising amount of sugar in them as well. Limit your pickle intake or you may end up at the dentist south Tampa with softened enamel.
6. Ice
If you live in a hot place or have ever been pregnant, you may have likely chewed on ice to stay comfortable. However, this isn’t necessarily the best thing for your teeth. The hardness of the ice is damaging.
7. Potato Chips
We all know that potato chips are bad for us. That doesn’t stop many people from enjoying a snack from time to time. While you may be thinking about your waistline while eating potato chips, you should also be thinking about your oral health. Potatoes are full of starch. It may not be well known that the starch will turn into sugar. all of the little particles in your mouth will start to eat at your teeth. There are plenty of tasty treats that won’t hurt your weight or your teeth. Pick a better option.
If the damage is already done, it may be time to visit a dentist south Tampa. They will be able to assess the damage and determine the best course of action to make your teeth stronger and more attractive.