We are often asked what the worst foods and drinks are for your teeth, which is why below, our New Jersey dental team has compiled a list of foods and drinks you should avoid to maintain healthy teeth. Continue reading to learn more.
Top 5 Foods & Drinks to Avoid for Healthy Teeth
- Bread: Though most of us do not think that we are doing our oral health a disservice by taking a bite into a bagel or a ham sandwich, the truth is, bread is one of the worst foods for your teeth. This is because when you chew bread, its starches will be broken down into sugar in your mouth and stick between your teeth. This is a very common cause of cavities. For this reason, it is very important to brush after eating starchy foods, or every meal, if possible.
- Hard Candy: Everybody knows that candy in general is bad for teeth. However, hard candy is even worse for teeth, as it puts you at risk of chipping a tooth or two. Additionally, hard candies are packed with sugar and acidic acids, which stay on your teeth the entire time you’re enjoying the sucker (and even after if you do not brush after you finish).
- Carbonated Soft Drinks & Sports/Energy Drinks: Carbonated drinks, such as soda, are terrible for tooth enamel, as they are loaded with sugar and acidic liquids. The same is true for sports drinks and energy drinks. Further, you should note that the darker the color of the drink, the more likely it is to stain your teeth. Speaking of acidity, citrus foods, like limes, lemons, and oranges, should also be consumed in moderation.
- Coffee: As you know, coffee is one of the biggest culprits of stained teeth. However, coffee also makes your teeth sticky, and with sugar, creamer, and other additives, it becomes all the more damaging to your teeth. Though we’re not saying to skip out on your morning cup of coffee, you should at least try to limit your intake and brush after drinking.
- Alcohol: Alcohol causes dry mouth, which depletes saliva. Saliva is key in keeping our teeth healthy. Further, drinking sugary or flavored alcohol also causes damage to teeth. Red and white wine are both very acidic, and what’s more, red wine is also a top culprit in staining teeth.
For any other questions, or if you’d like to set up an appointment, give us a call today.
Contact the Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
