Food is fuel for our bodies and is essential for growing and maintaining a healthy body. However, some foods and drinks are better for our health than others. For example, some foods and drinks provide nutrition, while others provide little to no nutritional value. Some foods and drinks can even damage our oral health. Here is a list of foods and beverages that can harm our oral health:
- Candy
Candy, in all forms, is bad for your teeth. Hard candy, lollipops, and sour candies can all damage your teeth. The reason for this is that candy is sticky. Sticky candy easily gets stuck to your teeth, and the longer it stays on your teeth, the more it can do damage. Your mouth is full of bacteria, and these bacteria eat the sugar in candy. This produces an acid that damages the enamel. Once this enamel is gone, your teeth are vulnerable and open to decay.
- Alcohol
Alcohol, including beer and wine, is extremely acidic. Drinking alcohol regularly can erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Drinking alcohol also dries out the mouth, increasing the risk for cavities. Alcohol is also high in sugar content, which can promote bacterial growth.
- Starchy Foods
The starch found in most types of bread, pasta, and crackers can feed oral bacteria. This can lead to cavities and bad breath. Instead, opt for more fibrous baked goods like muffins, bran muffins, and bran cereal.
- Citrus Fruits
Fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are acidic, which can weaken tooth enamel. Acidic foods can also irritate the soft tissues in the oral cavity. Some citrus fruits also contain high sugar content, which can promote tooth decay.
- Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks should be avoided because they contain high levels of sugar. In addition, the acidity of carbonated drinks can erode enamel. When drinking soda, use a straw and drink the beverage quickly.
- Coffee
Coffee can be very acidic and can alter the natural pH of your mouth. If you enjoy drinking coffee, be sure to drink a glass of water after to rinse away some of the acidity.
- Sports Drinks
Sports drinks may have a couple of redeeming qualities. They may contain some electrolytes, but that isn’t enough to justify drinking sports drinks regularly. This is because they are also high in sugar and acidic content, which can promote tooth decay.
- Tobacco Products
Tobacco products put your oral health at risk and increase your risk of oral cancer and gum disease.