4 Food & Drinks That Makes Your Tooth Decay

4 Food & Drinks That Makes Your Tooth Decay — Many of us might overlook our oral health when it comes to healthy eating. But eating particular foods and drinking particular beverages can have a variety of negative effects on our mouths and teeth.

Research shows, For example, different foods can contribute to tooth decay, also known as tooth rot. This occurs when the surface enamel of your teeth deteriorates. If left untreated, tooth decay can cause cavities, infection, pain, and even tooth loss.

We wanted to learn more about the foods that may contribute to tooth decay, so we spoke with Dr. Cary Goldstein, an Atlanta-based dentist at the Goldstein Dental Center.

“While brushing and flossing on regular basis can help keep your teeth healthy, it’s also important to be aware of the foods that may be quietly rotting your teeth,” Dr. Goldstein tells Eat This, Not That!

Read on to learn about how certain types of food and drinks may impact your oral health without you realizing it when you’re not mindful of what you put in your mouth.

1. Sugary drinks

4 Food & Drinks That Makes Your Tooth Decay
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If you consume a lot of sugary drinks on a regular basis, you could be slowly destroying your teeth. Soda, energy drinks, and sweetened teas can all contribute to tooth decay over time, according to Dr. Goldstein.

“The sugar in these drinks easily sticks to your teeth and promotes the growth of acid-producing bacteria, which can lead to plaque buildup that causes cavities, decay, and discoloration of your teeth,” he explains.

If you intend to drink a sugary beverage, being proactive about your oral hygiene immediately afterwards is critical to the health of your teeth.

“Always drink in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterwards,” advises Dr. Goldstein.

2. Sticky foods

This is one that people may not think about when it comes to tooth decay, but sticky foods like candy or even dried fruit can gradually evolve into an issue for your teeth as time progresses.

“These foods become lodged between your teeth and can be difficult to remove with brushing alone. They also often contain sugar, which can lead to decay over time,” says Dr. Goldstein. “To reduce your risk of cavities, opt for healthier, non-sticky snacks such as vegetables, nuts, and cheese.”

3. Acidic foods

4 Food & Drinks That Makes Your Tooth Decay
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Highly acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can weaken your enamel, according to Dr. Goldstein.

“Although these foods are healthy, the acids found in them can erode your enamel and cause decay,” says Dr. Goldstein. “If you do choose to eat acidic foods, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards to help neutralize the acid.”

4. Refined carbohydrates

This one may come as a surprise, but certain carbohydrates like bread and chips can also lead to tooth rot.

“Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugar found in carbohydrates, which can contribute to plaque buildup and cavities,” explains Dr. Goldstein. “Make sure to brush and floss after eating carbohydrates. Also, choose healthier carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.”

At the end of the day, if you’re concerned about potential tooth rot and want to better understand which food and beverages may be contributing to the current state of your oral health, you can always get more information by discussing you particular needs with your dentist.

“Being aware of the foods that may be quietly rotting your teeth can help you protect your smile and keep your teeth healthy for years to come,” advises Dr. Goldstein.

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