These Foods Are Worse For Your Teeth Than Sugar

They look innocent, but these chips want to ruin your teeth!

Avoiding sugar is always a good idea when it comes to healthy teeth and preventing cavities.  Contrary to what you may have been told, sugar is not the worst food for teeth.  While it is true that sugar has been proven to promote tooth decay and even gum disease, there are other villains at work that can cause serious damage to your dental health.

Acids Damage Teeth

Acids found in foods and beverage can break down tooth enamel, thinning it and causing it to lose strength.  When enamel becomes thin or porous, it make it easier for bacteria and decay to take hold on tooth surfaces.  The worst acid for teeth is citric acid.  Citric acid can be found in everything from fresh lemonade to sodas and sour candies.  Combine acid with sugar, and you have a recipe for dental disaster.

High Carb Foods 

All dietary carbohydrates break down into sugars. Avoiding sweets, candies and sugary snacks is a good idea, but if you indulge in high carb foods like bread, pasta, cereal, even dried fruit can get stuck between teeth and break down into a sugary feast for cavity causing oral bacteria.  If you eat a diet high in carbs, take extra care to brush, floss and rinse your mouth well. 

Foods and Habits to Avoid

Avoiding highly acidic foods can help preserve tooth enamel and keep teeth healthier and stronger.  Some common acidic foods are:

• red or white wine
• sodas (even diet)
• citrus
• tomato sauce

High carb and starchy foods that break down into sugars can be hard to spot sometimes.  Some of the worst offenders are:

• breads and crackers
• cereal, even if it has no sugar added
• dried fruit, raisins
• potato chips

In addition, do not use your teeth for jobs they are not intended for.  Opening packages and removing tags with your teeth is a sure way to damage them.  Chewing/crunching on ice is also hard on your teeth.  Grinding and clenching teeth can also cause serious damage.

Maintain a healthy diet, and remember to keep all foods in moderation.  If you indulge a little, be sure to clean your teeth well after the meal.  For more information about maintaining a diet which is healthy for teeth and gums, contact Forest Lane Dental.