Oral health plays an important role in our overall health. Many diseases originate in the mouth. This is why it is necessary to maintain good oral health. Listed below are some of the worst foods for oral health:

Sugary Foods

The sugar in these foods feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Bacteria in your mouth react to the added sugar with the production of acids, which soften your tooth’s enamel. This can cause tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, discoloration, or even tooth loss. If you simply can’t go without your morning coffee or other sweet beverages, choose sugar-free or sugarless varieties. Also, rinse your mouth with water after consuming these sweets to help wash away some of the substance that clings to your teeth.

Hard Candies

Hard candies are also a common culprit of tooth decay. Their sticky texture stays on teeth for a long time and leaves cavity-causing sugars behind to erode the tooth’s surface. This can lead to painful toothaches. Like sugary foods, avoid sucking on hard candies or chewing on ice as well. Both can crack or chip a tooth and cause pain.

Soft Drinks

Another drink you need to avoid is soda and other soft drinks. Soda contains a lot of acids that can cause erosion of the enamel on your teeth and make them more susceptible to decay. Similarly, sports drinks and energy drinks contain lots of acids that can break down your enamel quickly and lead to sensitivity from exposed nerves. Also, coffee can have similar effects as soda. Caffeine is a stimulant and can dry out the mouth, so limit your intake or use decaffeinated products instead.

Citrus Fruits And Juices

Finally, to lessen your risk of erosion, avoid citrus foods and juices. Acids in citrus fruits and fruit juices can erode the enamel on your teeth and may also cause bitter or metallic tastes to develop in the mouth.

Wine

This one may come as a shock to you, but wine can cause cavities! The acid and sugar in red wine combine to leave your teeth susceptible to tooth decay. If you do enjoy a glass of wine every now and then, be sure to drink some water afterward to wash away any lingering acids. Alcohol can also dry out your mouth, creating an uncomfortable sensation that can easily lead to further tooth damage.

If you must indulge in a glass of red or white, drink it alongside a meal to curb the acidity of the beverage. If you are unable to eat beforehand, go light on the wine and rinse with water after to prevent damage to your teeth.

Dried Fruits

While dried fruit is a great source of fiber, it’s a sugar bomb that can cause cavities! The sticky nature of the fruit causes it to adhere to teeth longer than other snacks or food. This gives the sugar more time to attack your enamel and cause cavities. If you must have some dried fruit for a snack, limit it to a few pieces per day, rinse with water after consuming them, and be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly afterward.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Angela An, D.D.S. General Dentistry, to learn more about maintaining good oral health. We are located at 490 Post St #1020, San Francisco, CA 94102. Contact us at (415) 291-8668 or visit our website for more information.