As dentists, we always tell our patients that a good diet and avoiding sugar is important for our dental health. While this is true, some healthy foods can also be bad for your teeth, and it’s important to know when extra brushing may be necessary.
Below is a list of the best and worst foods for your smile, as well as tips for caring for teeth that have been exposed to tooth enamel damaging snacks.
Healthy Foods and Beverages for your Smile
Water – Water is by far the healthiest drink for your oral and overall health. Fluoridated water is even better as it strengthens the enamel of the teeth, preventing decay.
Dairy Products - Drinking milk, or eating cheese and yogurt that are low in sugar and high in calcium helps teeth stay healthy.
Lean proteins – Meats, poultry, and fish contain phosphorus which, along with their protein help strengthen teeth.
Fruits and Vegetables – Crisp fruits and vegetables are especially good for your teeth but remember to brush shortly after eating citrus fruits as the acid and natural sugar wear down the enamel and cause decay if left alone.
Nuts and Legumes – These foods contain protein and minerals that are healthy for your smile, while also being low in cavity promoting carbohydrates. Chewing nuts also scrubs the surface of the teeth and stimulates saliva production which naturally protects teeth.
Food That can Turn Your Smile Into a Frown 
Hard Candy – These candies are high in sugar and if chewed, can cause damage to your teeth.
Ice – Chewing on ice can also damage your teeth. This is a habit worth breaking.
Citrus - Watch your citrus intake. These fruits contain high amounts of acid, which erode tooth enamel. Be sure to drink water with citrus to help rinse away this acid.
Dark Beverages & Alcohol – Drinks like coffee, tea, and wine can stain your teeth, while alcohol and caffeinated drinks can dry out your mouth which can set the stage for bacteria growth.
Sticky, Chewy Foods – Sticky foods like caramel are the worst, and are typically full of sugar. These stay on your teeth longer than other treats, and encourage the growth of bacteria. Even seemingly healthy dried fruits remain on your teeth for extended periods, feeding the bacteria that cause tooth decay.*
Crunchy Snacks - Snacks like potato chips are often filled with starch which gets trapped in the teeth. If you choose to indulge in these snacks, take extra care when you floss that day to remove all the food particles that can lead to plaque build-up.
Soda and Sports Drinks – Like citrus, sodas are acidic and can lead to loss of healthy tooth enamel. In addition to the high acidity in sodas, both carbonated soft drinks and sports drinks have tons of cavity causing sugar.
To minimize the potential damage of sugary, acidic, or bacteria generating foods, be sure to rinse after eating these snacks. Thorough brushing and flossing after meals also helps to ensure that bacteria which contributes to cavities is kept from accumulating.
At Harris Dental Group, we put education and prevention first. If you are looking for a dentist in Ellicott City, MD – Give Dr. Harris a call!