We all know that brushing our teeth twice a day and flossing regularly are important. But did you know that what you eat can also affect your teeth a lot? Tooth decay doesn’t just happen because you forgot to brush. It often begins with your daily food and drink choices.
How tooth decay happens
Tooth decay begins when the outer layer of your tooth, called enamel, gets damaged. This usually happens because of acid. But where does the acid come from? Your mouth is full of bacteria and most are harmless. But some feed on sugar. When you eat sugary or starchy foods, these bacteria create acid. That acid sticks to your teeth and slowly breaks down the enamel.
From decay to cavities and beyond
You might notice little white, brown, or black stains on your teeth. These are early signs of tooth decay. If you leave it, over time, this can lead to holes in your teeth, known as cavities. If tooth decay isn’t treated, it can cause pain (that dreaded toothache), infections, and even losing teeth.
Foods that increase your risk of decay
Some foods and drinks are worse than others when it comes to tooth decay. These include:
- Sugary snacks and drinks: sweets, soft drinks and sweetened fruit juices, biscuits, and even some breakfast cereals are high in sugar
- Alcohol: many alcoholic drinks have sugar and acid, which can wear down your enamel and cause cavities. Plus, alcohol can dry out your mouth, which means you have less saliva to wash away bacteria and protect your teeth.
- Acidic foods: like citrus fruit, vinegar and tomatoes
- Frequent snacking: grazing all day means your teeth are constantly under acid attack
Things your teeth love
Luckily, some foods actually help your teeth. These include:
- Calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and yoghurt to keep enamel strong
- Water to rinse away food and bacteria
- Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery to clean teeth naturally
- Nuts, especially almonds
Your teeth can’t choose what you eat, but you can. Making smart food and drink choices is one of the easiest ways to protect your smile.
References
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay
https://www.dentalhealth.org/blog/10-foods-and-drinks-with-surprising-oral-health-benefits
https://www.familydentalcare.co.za/the-best-foods-for-healthy-teeth-and-gums/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gum-disease
https://www.fdiworlddental.org/how-practice-good-oral-hygiene
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/fluoride
https://www.dentalhealth.org/blog/cheers-to-oral-health#
