Your Teeth Can Do Without These Foods

If you are what you eat, then your teeth are only as strong as your diet allows. Here are five foods that can damage your teeth:

Sugary candies - Sugary candies produce acids that damage tooth enamel while attracting equally destructive bacteria. Hard candies are bad because more acids build up in that specific area of the mouth, while sticky candies block saliva, the mouth's natural tooth-protection solution.

Soda - These days it seems that everyone -- especially kids whose teeth are still forming -- is swigging down massive quantities of soda. Not only does the high fructose corn syrup in these drinks have the same damaging effect on teeth as candy, but the citric and phosphoric acids they contain erodes tooth enamel even further.

Citrus fruits - While fruit might appear a healthy alternative to candy, citrus fruits can harm teeth as well. Lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges are natural sources of citric acid, which can etch its way into tooth enamel and make you more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Starchy foods - Potato chips and other starchy foods increase the acidity in your mouth, creating an ideal environment for tooth decay. To add insult to injury, these starches tend to get wedged into tiny nooks and crannies, making them difficult to remove completely.

Alcoholic beverages - Alcohol can dry the mouth, leaving less saliva to protect your teeth against bacteria. As a natural corrosive, it can also damage your gums and other oral tissues. Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages can contribute to tooth decay, periodontal disease and tooth loss.

We Can Advise You on Proper Dental Care

If you worry about the condition of your teeth, contact Anderson Family Dentistry for an evaluation. We will be happy to take a look, recommend treatments, and give advice on how you can take the best possible care of your teeth between visits.

Are you currently cutting down on sugar? What foods have you eliminated from your diet?

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