Worst Foods For Oral Health

Eating habits affect our oral health in more than one way. The foods you eat can directly cause dental problems or indirectly make existing problems worse. Here are some foods and beverages that are bad for our oral health:

• Candy

Sticky sweets like candy and caramel are some of the worst foods for oral health, as these can linger in the mouth for an extended period of time and stick to teeth. Unfortunately, this results in a significant amount of sugar and calories being left in your mouth for hours — leading to tooth decay. Your saliva cannot effectively wash away the sugar from your teeth, which allows it to sit on the tooth surface and lead to cavities. Furthermore, these sweets are also high in acid and sugar, which can lead to enamel erosion.

• Sticky Foods

Certain foods stick to your teeth, which can increase the risk of cavities. Avoid eating sticky foods like candy and dried fruits, which can linger on your teeth long after you’ve eaten them. Sticky foods can also get stuck in between teeth, increasing your risk for gum disease.

• Citrus Fruits

Acidic fruits and citrus fruits are some of the worst foods for oral health because they wear away tooth enamel and cause sensitivity and discoloration in teeth. Lemons, oranges, grapefruit, and limes are full of acid that can damage your enamel and create cavities. These fruits are also high in sugar, which feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Other foods like pickles, tomato sauce, and soy sauce may also damage your enamel. They’re also high in sugar and acid. If you want to enjoy these fruits without harming your teeth, rinse your mouth with water after eating them. 

• Sugary Drinks

Sodas, sports drinks, and other sugary beverages are some of the worst things you can put into your mouth. They contain acids that can erode your teeth and cause cavities. If you must consume soda, be sure to rinse your mouth with water immediately after. These beverages are also very acidic and can cause tooth enamel to wear away. This can cause you to have a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

• Starchy Foods

Starchy foods, such as bread and crackers, are difficult for saliva to wash from your teeth, leaving behind a sticky film that can increase your risk of tooth decay. These foods also tend to stick to the surfaces of teeth after eating, increasing your risk for cavities. Try to eat these types of foods with a meal to reduce the time your teeth are exposed to them. And rinse your mouth afterward. 

If you’d like to know more about oral health tips, call (925) 847-8790 to schedule an appointment. You can also directly visit John H. Ko, DDS, at 5720 Stoneridge Mall Rd #200, Pleasanton, CA 94588, for all your dental health concerns.