Worst Foods For Oral Health

Good oral health is important for several reasons. Maintaining good oral health enables patients to avoid dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. If left untreated, these conditions can cause patients to experience pain, discomfort, and/or embarrassment. Good oral health is also important for the appearance of your smile. To maintain good oral health, at-home oral hygiene is important. Besides, it is also important to avoid certain foods and beverages from the diet to prevent their damage to our oral health: 

• Sugary Foods

Refined sugar is commonly used in junk foods, and too much of it can increase the risk of cavities. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar, and when the bacteria eat sugar, they release acid, which dissolves the tooth enamel. This can lead to tooth decay. Additionally, sugar can weaken the overall integrity of the teeth. Because sugar is sticky, it can lead to food particles becoming trapped in the teeth. This allows more plaque and bacteria to build up, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

• Acidic Foods

Acidic foods aren't great for your teeth. They can break down your tooth enamel, causing tooth sensitivity and cavities. Acidic foods include citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and carbonated sodas. Acidic foods can also soften the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities.

• Sticky Foods

Candy and caramels are some of the worst foods for oral health because they are sticky and cling to your teeth. When you eat foods like these, make sure to use a toothbrush and floss immediately afterward in order to remove any debris left behind.

• Crunchy Foods

Crunchy foods can cause damage when chewing. This damage includes chipping, cracking, and breaking off teeth. Even healthy foods like apples and carrots can damage teeth. This is because these foods have small, hard pieces that can get stuck between teeth.

• Hard Foods

Hard foods include ice, hard candy, and nuts. All of these foods can damage your tooth enamel. Aside from cracking your teeth, hard foods can also displace fillings and crowns. Hard candies or ice may also cause dental fractures. To protect your teeth, avoid hard foods as much as possible you can. When your tooth is fractured, you may require restorative dentistry treatment like a dental crown.

• Spicy Foods

It's probably no surprise that spicy foods can take a toll on your oral health. Spicy foods contain high amounts of acid that can erode tooth enamel. When enamel erodes, it exposes the dentin and the underlying structure of your teeth. You may also notice increased tooth sensitivity after indulging in spicy foods. If you find that your teeth are extra sensitive after enjoying spicy foods, try rinsing your mouth with water shortly after a meal.

Please reach out to our dental practice at 17952 SW Blanton St, Aloha, OR 97078, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bronitsky. Call us at (503) 649-5665 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.