BLOG

Our diet has a significant effect on our oral health. Our oral health is significantly impacted by what we eat. Eating the wrong kinds of foods can cause damage to our teeth and gums. If you consume a lot of foods that are high in sugar and acid, you may suffer from tooth decay and gum disease. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, you need to eat a healthy diet if you want to maintain good oral health. Listed below are some food items that can damage our oral health.

• Sugary foods and drinks

In addition to damaging the structural integrity of teeth, sugary foods and drinks also feed the bacteria in our mouths that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Sugary foods and drinks contain high amounts of sugar that can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. It is important to avoid these foods whenever possible or at least limit their consumption. If you do eat sugary foods, try to drink water or rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away leftover food particles. This helps remove sugar and acid from your teeth before they have a chance to damage them.

• Acidic foods and drinks

When we eat or drink anything acidic, including citrus fruits, soda, and fruit juice, it wears away at the enamel on teeth. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but acid will eat away at it over time. This can result in cavities and other oral health problems. Opt for plain water over juice, and always have your teeth brushed after meals to rinse away the acids left behind.

• Sticky candies

Chewy and sticky candies, like caramels, gummies, or hard candy, can stay in your mouth for a long time and create the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply and cause tooth decay. These candies are also high in sugar and can stick to your teeth, which can cause cavities.

If you do occasionally enjoy a piece of your favorite chewy candy, make sure you are brushing your teeth well afterward to remove the sugar from your teeth and prevent decay. You can also rinse with water to help remove any remaining sugars.

• Hard candy

Candies like lollipops and hard candies are often full of sugar, which feeds the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Bacteria also get trapped between your teeth when you eat these types of treats.

Instead of eating hard candies, choose sugar-free gum to improve your oral health. Chewing gum increases saliva production in your mouth, which washes away oral bacteria and helps fight bad breath too!

To learn more about our dental procedures, schedule an appointment with Bergeron Dental by calling us at (907) 456-5600 or visiting our dental office located at 3112 Airport Way, Suite 2, Fairbanks, AK 99709.