While there are many foods that are great for our overall health, some caution should be exercised when consuming these foods to ensure that your teeth stay healthy for your lifetime.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruit may be healthy for your body, but because of a very acidic pH level, eating lots of citrus fruits can lead to tooth erosion. Tooth erosion occurs when the acids in your mouth erode the outer layer of your teeth, known as the enamel. Tooth erosion can lead to sensitive, thin and yellowish looking teeth. Try to rinse your mouth with water after consumption of citrus fruits, and the water will wash away much of the acid from your mouth.
Sugary Soda
Soda has lots of sugar in it, plus it is usually also acidic. The sugars in soda can lead to cavities, while the acidic content can lead to acid erosion. It is essential to try to reduce your soda intake. Something to note is that exposure time is the most crucial factor in the consumption of sugars, not quantity. If you have a small soda but sip it slowly over a few hours instead of drinking it all at once, your teeth will continuously be bathed in the sugary liquid, increasing the risk for cavities.
Candies
Candies contain sugar, but they are particularly bad for your teeth because, oftentimes, they get stuck in your teeth. Sweets that are sticky, gummy and chewy have a more significant cavity-causing risk for your teeth than candies that dissolve immediately. Try to reduce your consumption of candies and to brush your teeth after the consumption of candies.
Dried Fruit
Fruits are a great snack and a healthy option, but dried fruits contain the same amount of sugar in a small, condensed piece. Because of its texture, dried fruit can also get stuck in your teeth, extending the exposure to the sugar. Again, try to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after the consumption of dried fruit.
Ice Cubes
Ice cubes are not suitable for your teeth because they are too hard and can lead to potential chips and fractures. Try to never bite into ice and, instead, let it melt.