Southeast Dental - Dentist in Markham, ON

Address : 70 Karachi Dr, Markham ON L3S 0B5
  Call Us : 905-471-2002

worst food for your teeth

The Worst Foods for Your Teeth

In previous blog posts we’ve outlined some foods that are great for your teeth – these include apples, carrots, cheese, and lean protein. They can help clean your teeth between meals, and some even help to neutralize the bad bacteria that build up in your mouth. But, of course, there is an even longer list of foods that are terrible for your teeth. We’ve put together a list of the worst oral health culprits you can eat.

Candies: We all know how bad sugar is for the teeth, but it’s especially bad when it comes in the form of hard candies or chewy, sticky ones. Hard candies, for example, can actually cause teeth to chip or break when bitten down on. And chewy candies can easily cause cavities, as they’ll stick to the tooth’s surfaces, making them difficult to properly clean.

Soft Drinks: Yet again, we’re dealing with a high amount of sugar which is always terrible for teeth. But on top of sugar, soft drinks (and even sports drinks) include phosphoric acid which can erode enamel, making your teeth more prone to cavities and decay.

Red Wine: In moderation, red wine can be perfectly safe for your teeth. Just be sure to brush immediately after consuming a glass. Otherwise wine causes long-lasting stains on your teeth. Another option is to have a glass of water available between red wine sips.

Citrus Juices & Fruits: Though they seem perfectly safe, especially fruits, they do have a negative effect on teeth. Unfortunately, citric acid can cause dental erosion. While many articles may advise you to brush your teeth immediately after eating fruits or citrus juices, it’s actually best to wait at least 20-30 minutes after.

Coffee & Tea: Like red wine, coffee and tea are both known for their staining properties. If you’re a daily coffee or tea drinker, we wouldn’t dream of asking you to stop making them a part of your morning. But always be sure to brush immediately afterwards to help prevent staining.

Ice: Something many people don’t often think of, ice can cause breakage or chipped teeth when bitten down on. So while it’s perfectly fine to have ice in your drinks, think twice before chewing on them – your teeth will thank you.

To help avoid staining and cavities caused my sugary foods, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important (especially if you’re unable to avoid these food items). Contact us at Southeast Dental in Markham to book your next appointment by phone at 905-471-2002, or use our online form.

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