You likely already know that overly sugary foods, like candy and other sweet treats, attracts harmful germs that contribute to oral issues like cavities and gum disease. You can prevent problems by limiting your consumption and brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria buildup.
However, sugar isn’t the only ingredient that can cause tooth decay. There are several options that can harm your dental health if you’re not careful. Continue reading to learn about 3 snacks that hurt your smile so you don’t overindulge!
Food #1: Raisins
Many people consider raisins a wholesome option because they’re made from grapes. These dehydrated fruits are full of nutrients that can boost your general well-being, like potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Plus, they’re good sources of soluble fiber, which aids in digestion and can improve stomach problems.
Unfortunately, they’re also incredibly high in sugar content. In many instances, they contain nearly as much of the sweetener as candy bars or sodas. To make matters worse, they tend to cling to your teeth or stick in between them, encouraging unhealthy bacteria to thrive.
Food #2: Crackers
You might be surprised to learn that crackers and other bready starches can also hurt your teeth. Although they seem fairly bland and harmless initially, once your saliva interacts with carbohydrates, it begins breaking them down into simple sugars in your mouth.
Plus, many dry crackers like Saltines crush into fine powder that forms a paste on your teeth when it’s moist. This material can potentially cover every surface of your mouth and can be difficult to rinse away. Drinking plenty of water afterward can help remove unwanted microbes and leftover debris.
Food #3: Citrus Fruits
Did you know that many citrus fruits are full of vitamin C to support healthy connective tissues? This essential nutrient is a vital component in the creation and maintenance of collagen, which is the protein that gives your gums their strength and elasticity. Without enough vitamin C, you’re vulnerable to oral issues like periodontal problems, or in severe cases, scurvy.
While it’s imperative that you consume enough citrus to support your gums, too much can hurt your enamel. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are also highly acidic. Eating too much can erode your enamel and cause cavities, so it’s best to eat them as part of a balanced diet.
If you’ve developed tooth decay or gum disease, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible so they can treat it before it progresses!
Meet the Author
Dr. Tonie Lewis has 15 years of experience helping families build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. She earned her dental degree from the Howard University College of Dentistry, where she also received the Community Dentistry Award and the Academy of Esthetic Dentistry Award. Now, she provides a full array of services under one roof to streamline your dental care. She takes the time to get to know you so she can customize treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Then, she uses state-of-the-art technology to enhance your comfort while delivering accurate results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 954-9728.