5 Foods Destroying Your Teeth

Did you know that most adults have 32 teeth? However, unlike children, if you lose these teeth, they are gone for good. For that reason, it's important to take good care of them. Flossing, brushing, and finding affordable dental care in Newnan are all good ways to ensure the health of your mouth. However, some of the foods you most commonly enjoy might be destroying your only set of teeth? Here are 5 foods that are wreaking havoc on your chompers.

Crackers and Chips

While these delicious snacks may satisfy some serious cravings, they are extremely harmful to your teeth. Chips and crackers are filled with starch. They get stuck in your teeth and eventually turn into sugar. With sugar stuck in your teeth, decay is more likely. For that reason, it's best to limit your starchy food consumption. Also, be sure to floss regularly in order to remove any food particles that may become lodged in the groove of your teeth.

Citrus

Oranges, limes, lemons, and grapefruit are all great sources of vitamin C. They can help to boost your immune system and fight off infection. However, they are also extremely acidic. While your mouth is slightly acidic, citrus can throw off the pH balance of your mouth, causing the enamel on your teeth to erode. Because your tooth enamel protects against decay, once it's eroded, your teeth are at risk. Citrus can also irritate any sores or cankers that are present in your mouth. However, this doesn't mean that you need to get rid of these tangy fruits completely. Instead, just be sure to drink lots of water and brush regularly.

Ice

While it doesn't contain any additives or sugar, ice can cause problems for your teeth. Chomping down on ice can cause microscopic cracks in your teeth to form which can cause damage to your teeth. It can also cause the enamel to wear through, leaving your teeth more exposed to decay. This is one food that it's best not to chew. Instead, just enjoy it in your beverage instead of using it as a snack.

Dried Fruit

You try to eat healthy. You avoid candy and chocolate. When those sugar cravings set in, you reach for dried fruit instead. While this might be healthier decision for your body, it's not the best option for your teeth. Sticky snacks and foods, like dried fruit, take time to chew. They can easily get stuck in your teeth and can be difficult to remove through brushing and flossing. If they aren't removed immediately, then the sugar will sit on the surface of your teeth and can cause decay. If you do eat dried fruit, be sure to rinse your mouth and floss immediately.

Coffee

While not inherently bad for your teeth, the acidic combination of the coffee combined with the sugar that is normally added can wreak havoc on your teeth over time. Coffee can also stain your teeth and make them more yellow. However, if you're an avid coffee drinker, it's okay. There's no need to eliminate your favorite morning beverage. Instead, be sure to drink a lot of water to keep the coffee from sitting on your teeth. Also, try to limit the amount of sugar and creamer that you add to your cup of joe each day.

Instead of trying to eliminate all of the foods that could do your teeth harm, try to eat them in moderation. Be sure to brush for at least 2 minutes twice a day and floss in order to remove any remaining food particles. Drinking plenty of water and finding affordable dental care in Newnan are also great ways to ensure that your teeth remain healthy.

Source : articlesbase.com