Your mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body. What you eat and how well you care for your teeth affect more than just your smile. Unhealthy teeth and gums also put you at risk for other health problems. Here is a list of certain foods and beverages that can damage your oral health:

• Sugar

One of the main culprits of tooth decay is sugar. Sugar feeds oral bacteria, and when they build up in the mouth, plaque forms and erodes enamel. To stay cavity-free, limit your intake of sugar.

• Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits contain acids that can soften tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. This can also cause enamel erosion, which will eventually cause tooth decay. So, limit the intake of citrus fruits. Also, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after consuming citrus fruits.

• Sticky Foods

Foods that are sticky, such as gummy candies, put a great deal of pressure on the teeth and can lead to tooth damage. In addition, sticky foods often stay in the mouth for a long time, which can invite bacteria onto the teeth.

• Starchy Foods

There are a few different types of foods that fall into this category. Starchy foods include:

• Bread
• Pasta
• Potatoes
• Chips
• Crackers
• Popcorn
• Donuts
• Bagels
• Cookies

Most starchy foods are high in sugar and carbohydrates, which feed the bacteria that cause dental decay. They also tend to stick in the crevices of your teeth and between your teeth, giving them more time to cause harm.

• Acidic Foods

Acidic beverages, such as coffee, tea, and wine, can erode the enamel on your teeth. Enamel is the protective layer of your teeth, and when it’s gone, there’s nothing to protect it from the bacteria in your mouth. Once bacteria makes its way into your teeth, it can lead to tooth decay.

• Soda

Soda is incredibly damaging to your teeth, even when you drink it in moderation. This is because soda contains not only sugar but also acid. This combination is awful for your teeth. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which produces acid. This acid then breaks down the enamel of your teeth, causing cavities.

• Sports Drinks

Sports drinks are some of the worst beverages for your teeth. The high sugar content can lead to tooth decay. The acidity in the drinks also wears away your enamel, causing erosion. Water is always the better option, but if you do drink sports drinks, rinse your mouth with water after drinking.

• Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic beverages include wine, beer, tequila, and whiskey and can quickly wreak havoc on your teeth. Alcoholic beverages have a high acid content. This acid can dissolve the enamel on your teeth, making your teeth more sensitive. The acid can also wear away the enamel on your teeth, making them more likely to chip or crack. The sugar found in alcoholic beverages can also contribute to tooth decay.

• Tobacco Products

Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, are some of the most harmful to your mouth. They lead to oral cancer, tooth loss, gum disease, and stained teeth.

Schedule an appointment with Arden Dental Center to learn more about taking care of your oral health. We are located at 531 E. Roosevelt Road, Suite 100, Wheaton, IL 60187. Contact our team at (630) 529-0303 or visit our website to book a consultation.