In our culture, there are many foods that have a negative impact on dental health. Sugar is prominent in a huge percentage of our foods, and is the main cause of dental decay because bacteria love it. The good news is that how you consume sugar has a greater impact than the amount of sugar in your diet.
Some foods that might seem safe will actually turn into sugar that can also prove to be a feeding ground for bacteria.
The worst thing that you can do to your teeth is to drink a regular sugar-based soft drink over a long period of time by sipping at every few minutes. The same is true for snacking on sugary foods. This allows bacteria the most amount of time to attack your teeth. If you eat sugary desserts or beverages, have it after food in one quick sitting.
There are a number of types of sugar, and some foods that might seem safe will actually turn into sugar that can also prove to be a feeding ground for bacteria. Bread for example can quickly convert to sugar. Cutting down the amount of sugar you ingest is good for cavity prevention just as it is good for your overall health.
We’re not saying that you should never have sugar. That would be unrealistic. But the best way to avoid cavities is to prevent sugar from staying next to your teeth. Brushing after eating sugar, rinsing your mouth with fluoride mouthwash, or chewing sugarless gum can help. Of course the best approach is to avoid sugar as much as possible.
Some people believe that chewing foods like apples may have plaque removal affects. Yet they can contain certain kinds of sugar, known as fructose. Apples and other common fruits contain significant amounts of fructose. This has the same impact as other sugars, as it provides a breeding ground for bacteria. Sipping fruit juices over time can be extremely harmful to your teeth!
In addition, fruits often contain acidic elements that have a dangerous impact on the enamel of your teeth. If in frequent contact with your mouth, foods like limes, lemons, grapefruits, and oranges or kiwi fruit can cause serious irreversible damage to your teeth.
We’re not saying you should avoid fruits, because they are part of a healthy lifestyle. Just avoid keeping them in contact with your teeth over an extended period of time.
The best approach to maintaining healthy teeth is to avoid sugary or acidic foods, especially refined sugars. When you do eat them, brush right after eating to avoid problems.
