When you hear someone has a cavity, you may imagine that they ate too many sweets and candies. These treats are a common culprit when it comes to this oral health issue. However, a sweet tooth may not be the only reason. There are some sneaky snacks that can increase your risk of tooth decay. Keep reading to shine some light on other types of foods that can harm your enamel and how you can safely enjoy them.
1.) Citrus Fruits and Pickles
It might seem odd to group these, but they have similar reasons as to why they can be bad for your teeth when eaten too often. In short, citrus (such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc.) and pickles are very acidic. Their juices slowly erode the outer layer of your teeth. When your enamel becomes compromised, bacteria are more likely to cause decay.
2.) Crackers
Did you know that starches can increase your risk of cavities? That’s because this carbohydrate breaks down into sugar by the enzymes that are in your saliva. The harmful bacteria in your mouth then turn it into acid, which dissolves your enamel. If you don’t properly clean your smile after enjoying some crackers and chips, then you may be unknowingly giving yourself a higher chance of oral health issues!
3.) Pasta Sauce
The delicious flavor of pasta sauce can make you feel satisfied after a meal. You will be full and happy, but your enamel might not be as ecstatic. The flavorful stuff is often sugary or acidic, sometimes it’s both! Like the reasoning for the stuff above, it can spell bad news if you let it linger on your smile for too long.
How Can I Still Enjoy These Foods?
There might be foods that aren’t the best for your enamel, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying them. Many items may offer some health benefits for you, like getting vitamin C from citrus fruits or the needed fiber from crackers.
You should try your best to have them in moderation or rinse out your mouth with water after eating. If you have a toothbrush handy, then doing your oral hygiene routine 30 minutes after consuming them can be beneficial! The acids and sugars can soften your enamel, so waiting helps prevent further damage. Doing this will help your stomach stay happy with yummy foods, and your smile pristine with no cavities!
About the Author
Dr. Robert C. Fromuth earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He strives to give his patients the best, so he continues his education by taking advanced training regularly. With his knowledge and state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Fromuth can spot cavities while they are in their early stages and fix them before they cause extensive damage.
Your path to healthy teeth and gums is made easy in his office through preventive treatments like regular checkups! If you want to learn more about how you can better care for your smile, schedule an appointment or call (603) 644-3368.