Kiefer Family Dental not only helps take care of your teeth and gums through dental actions, but Kiefer also offers many dental services as well. The blog on Kiefer is here to give good dental advice. In this blog right here, we will explain that there are six foods that we, as well as many dentists, say to stop eating.
Everyone should know that brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and regular professional cleanings aren’t enough to keep your teeth in excellent condition. Avoiding certain foods and drinks (like those on this list) that can damage your teeth is crucial.
1. All Acidic Foods & Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks are the second-worst enemy for your oral health. Scientifically, anything that has an acidic environment throws off the balancing act between good and bad bacteria. When you have too much bad bacteria, it sets up an environment for the bad bugs that cause inflammation in the mouth to thrive. It also causes tooth wear and erosion.
Although they seem healthy, one major risk is the consumption of citrus fruits. Balancing the acidic foods in your diet, such as proteins, with alkalizing foods such as (non-citrus) fruits and vegetables will only help your dental health.
We should also be avoiding sodas as they are a DOUBLE WHAMMY. They are acidic and sugary packing a one-two punch against your oral health. It’s like putting your teeth in battery acid. The same goes for sports drinks.
Coffee is also acidic, but only a little bit. However, it’s a diuretic, which means that its consumption can dry out your mouth and reduce the protective effects of your saliva. (The same is true of alcohol).
2. All Sugary Foods & Drinks…Especially Sticky Ones
The number one high-risk thing you can do for your teeth is to consume sugar. It breaks down from the bacteria in your mouth and causes decay of the enamel. The worst offenders are gummy candies that stick to your teeth. This applies to dried fruit as well.
Some sage advice if you must eat these things is that after consuming them, drink a glass of water to rinse away remnants. But remember, moderation with sugar is key.
3. Nuts
It’s not so much that you need to avoid consuming nuts as it is that you might need to alter the way in which you consume them. Opening pistachios with your front teeth or eating super-hard nuts with your front teeth will wear those teeth down. Soak almonds in olive oil to soften them before eating. This is especially needed if you’ve had dental work like crowns or veneers.
4. Seeds & Kernels
Seeds like sesame, caraway, etc. can get stuck in the spaces between your teeth or worse, get under the gums, creating a painful abscess. Popcorn kernels are a problem in this way, too. And while you don’t have to completely cut them out of your diet, it’s a good idea to chase them with a glass of water and brush your teeth right after consumption. That way you can wash them away.
5. Starchy Snacks
Starchy foods like potato chips are bad, too. This is due to sugar content, but also because they crumble into tiny pieces that stick to and between your teeth. It ends up leaving sugar in those areas around your teeth and makes your teeth prone to decay. Since non-citrus fruits and veggies are good for your teeth and your overall health, they’re a great replacement for tooth-decay-causing Doritos.
6. Ice
Some are not sure if ice counts as a food (it does), and you should really try to stop eating it. Chewing on ice will definitely break your teeth. For this reason, it should also be avoided.
We at Kiefer Family Dental hope that the information about the six foods to avoid was helpful. The office of Kiefer Family Dental provides the best in modern dentistry for individuals and families, as well as valuable help and information.
Our highly-qualified dentists and gentle hygienists work hard to combine knowledge and skill with the latest in technology to give our patients the best possible dental outcomes. With services ranging from periodontal therapy, oral surgery. dental implants, dentures and even being set up for Invisalign clear braces, Kiefer Family Dental is your Evansville, Indiana A+ dental choice. Call (812) 424-9506 or use the website to book an appointment online.
