While candy is notorious for damaging teeth, it’s not the only culprit. Registered dental hygienist Whitney DiFoggio warns that some seemingly innocent foods and drinks can be just as harmful.

The Worst Offenders for Your Teeth

According to cosmetic dentist Dr. Lana Rozenberg, sugary or acidic drinks are among the biggest culprits. This includes sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices. These beverages can sit between the teeth, leading to decay and other dental issues. Acidic foods and drinks like coffee, wine, and fruit juices can erode tooth enamel, causing cavities, decay, and sensitivity, especially with high consumption.

Sticky foods, such as gummies and dried fruit, can adhere to teeth and get stuck in crevices, making them difficult to clean and increasing the risk of decay. Fermentable carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and chips break down into sugars in the mouth, sticking to teeth and promoting tooth decay.

Preventing Tooth Damage

You don’t have to give up these foods entirely to maintain healthy teeth. There are ways to reduce their harmful effects, in addition to good oral hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing.

• Strategic Eating: Eating fibrous foods like apples or carrots after consuming sugary or sticky foods can naturally clean teeth by dislodging food particles and sugars, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.
• Hydration is Key: Drinking water while eating and swishing with it afterward can help clear food particles and sugars from the mouth. It’s recommended to wait about an hour after eating to brush your teeth.
• Chew Xylitol Gum: Chewing gum containing xylitol can increase saliva flow, which helps wash away food debris and neutralize acid more effectively. Saliva is a natural cleanser for teeth.

Taking these steps can help minimize the impact of harmful foods and drinks on your dental health, ensuring a brighter smile and healthier teeth for years to come.