Food items that may damage your teeth and how to protect them

The food you eat has a major impact on your oral health. Consuming sugary snacks and meals repeatedly can lead to plaque buildup — a sticky film full of bacteria that causes gum disease and tooth decay. Sugar makes it easier for bacteria to thrive because they feed on it and produce acids that erode your tooth enamel. Would you like to spend money on fillings or possibly end up with dental issues?

Besides the plaque-like damage caused by sugary food items, remember to brush your teeth at least two times a day, floss, see your dentist regularly, and try not to eat foods that contribute to plaque buildup. It's that simple. Having a good set of teeth and maintaining good oral care is important. It's not very difficult.


8 common foods that can harm your teeth and gums1. Table sugar, candy and added sweeteners
Any sugary food can cause tooth decay and cavities. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and release acid. Acid wears down tooth enamel and leads to inflammation in the gums. Anything sticky, like caramels or lollipops, is especially damaging because they leave sugar on your teeth for longer.

2. Sugary cereals and baked sweets
Many breakfast cereals and baked sweets are filled with refined carbohydrates and added sugar, which are both important parts to help cavities grow.

3. Carbonated and sugary drinks
All sodas, even if sugar-free, are more acidic due to the presence of phosphoric and citric acids, and can wear the enamel away. Energy drinks and sports drinks are also bad for the teeth.

4. Refined carbohydrates and starches
Refined carbohydrates like white bread, crackers, pasta, and chips can turn to sugar in your mouth, feeding bacteria and creating plaque.

5. Acidic fruits and juices
Citric fruits (oranges, lemons, tomatoes) and fruit juices have a lot of citric acid that can demineralize enamel.

6. Sticky food and hard candies
A sticky candy that stays on the teeth and prolongs sugar exposure from the candy, while hard candies and ice can break the enamel.

7. Coffee, tea, and alcohol
In addition to being acidic, coffee, tea, and alcohol can cold stain, remove saliva, and wear down enamel.

8. Popcorn
Popcorn is one of the most common foods between the teeth. When noticed, it can be removed with dental floss, but when not noticed, it stays between the teeth and damages the tooth enamel.


Caring for your teeth after consuming acidic food

Although reducing acidic foods entirely feels nearly impossible, you can limit their effect on your teeth. After you consume, drink water, and wait 30 minutes before you brush your teeth. Brushing too soon can cause further damage to your enamel. Limit acidic foods, stay hydrated, and go to your dentist regularly to avoid cavities and decay.