We all need to have food to survive. Certain foods are good for your smile’s longevity, and while some are worse. Let’s have a look at the best and worst foods for your teeth:
Worst Foods
Dried fruits: Even though they are a healthy alternative to candies, these sticky bites can damage your teeth. They have high sugar content and can be acidic. You should brush and floss your teeth soon after eating dry fruits to keep a healthy smile.
Potato chips: It is common to enjoy salty chips along with a sandwich, but these chips are high in carbohydrates that feed on cavity-causing bacteria. They might also get stuck in the gaps between teeth, causing decay and other dental problems.
Coffee: Coffee or energy drinks can dry your mouth, making it a breeding ground for bacteria, also staining your teeth.
Hard Candies: Hard candies release sugar slowly, providing cavity-causing bacteria, a steady supply of food which helps them multiply and produce damaging acids. On the other hand, sour candies are acidic and erode your enamel.
Citrus: Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges wear down your enamel over time, making your teeth prone to cavities. You should always ensure rinsing your mouth with water after drinking citrus juices.
Best Foods
Calcium-rich foods: Cheese and other dairy products are good for the health of your smile. Yogurt assists in digestion by helping crowd out the harmful bacteria. But you need to ensure it has no added sugar.
Fruits and vegetables: You need to chew vegetables and fruits a lot, which disturbs dental plaque, and helps in cleansing your mouth. Choose the ones that are crunchy, low in acid, and sugar.
Almonds: There are lots of protein and minerals present in the nuts that are essential for your dental and overall health. The minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in almonds benefit your teeth and bones.
Sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gums help in boosting saliva secretion and also help in clearing away bad bacteria. They can trap bacteria and food from your teeth, making them much cleaner.
Fluoridated water: Water is not only good for your overall health but also your teeth. Drinking fluoridated water can help teeth to stay more resistant to acidic foods that cause cavities.
Call us at (480) 888-8123 or schedule an online appointment with Dr. Matheson for a consultation at our office in Queen Creek, AZ.