281.225.4966 As a child, you may remember being told to eat your fruits and vegetables to grow big and strong, and to drink lots of milk to get strong bones. Without a doubt, food plays a role in how our body grows and develops. But do you know the types of foods that most frequently lead to tooth damage?
It may not surprise you that hard candies make the cut with all the sugar in them. But did you know that chewing on hard candy or ice can chip or break a tooth?
Sticky foods can also be problematic. Your mind may immediately go to a favorite gummy treat, but dried fruits may also land in this category. The issue here is that it can stick to your teeth and can be difficult to remove. The sugar inside of the food could encourage bacteria to grow. After you’re done eating, you might want to rinse your mouth out well with water and then brush and floss well when you’re able.
Starchy foods can promote plaque growth. Instead of eating a chip, you might reach for a carrot—you’ll still get the satisfying crunch, but not the plaque!
Beverages are not innocent either. Acidic foods have the ability to erode the enamel on your teeth, and once it’s gone it cannot be replaced. While many people enjoy putting lemon or lime juice in their water, citrus fruits are acidic and can also irritate mouth sores. Most sodas (including diet) are acidic. The first ingredient listed in most sports drinks is sugar. An occasional cup is fine, but frequently drinking tea or coffee may stain your teeth. Additional additives can also pose a problem. Coffee can also leave your mouth dry, so be sure to drink lots of water. And lastly, alcohol causes dehydration and dry mouth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with Dr. Brian Miller, call us at 281.225.4966 or come by our office in Houston, Texas. At Miller Family Dental, our dentist and team are happy to hear from you.