Our teeth are vulnerable to damage from foods that can stick to them and cause cavities and other issues. Most foods can be healthy for your teeth, but some foods are not good for your teeth and should be avoided. Here is a list of some foods and beverages that can harm our oral health. 

• Hard candy

Even sugar-free hard candies are dangerous for your teeth and gums. They stick to your teeth, and every time you chew or bite down on the hard candy, you increase your risk of cracking or chipping a tooth. Additionally, saliva does not neutralize the sugars in sweets the way it does with other foods and drinks. This means that over time, sugary foods will feed oral bacteria and increase plaque production. The sugars will also break down the enamel on your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.

• Sour candies

Acidic substances in food can soften tooth enamel, making it easier to damage your teeth with tooth decay or cavities. Most dentists recommend that you avoid sweets that are very acidic because your mouth needs time to recover from acid attacks from food and bacteria. If you do decide to indulge, rinse your mouth with water after eating. Wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth to remove the softened enamel. Brushing too soon can cause more damage to your teeth by rubbing off the softened enamel. 

• Bread

Bread has no nutritional value and is often high in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates break down into simple sugars when consumed, which is what causes cavities. 

• Alcohol

Most alcoholic beverages are very acidic, which can burn and damage teeth. The sugary mixers in alcoholic drinks also increase the risk of tooth decay. In general, it's best to limit your alcohol intake, but if you must drink, try to consume it in one sitting rather than sipping throughout the night. This helps prevent the acid from sitting on your teeth for too long and causing damage.

• Carbonated drinks

Many carbonated beverages contain acids, namely citric acid, which is extremely damaging to teeth enamel. The acid softens the enamel and makes it more susceptible to damage from acidic foods and beverages. Additionally, some sodas contain added sugars which contribute to tooth decay and cavities. If you are craving soda, choose a diet version without sugar or additives. Water is always the best drink choice for healthy teeth and gums!

• Ice

Ice is one of the worst things you can eat when you have teeth because chewing on ice can damage your teeth. It's also bad for your gums because it irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, causing sores and bleeding gums. The cold temperature alone is also irritating, and it reduces the blood flow to teeth and tissues. If you must chew on something, choose sugarless gum instead.

Stone Lake Dentistry is here to help you maintain your oral health. For appointments, please call us at (832) 930-7856 or visit us at 12711 Telge Rd Suite #100, Cypress, TX 77429. For more information, please email us at stonelakedentistry@gmail.com.