A LOOK AT NUTRITIOUS FOODS THAT ARE SURPRISINGLY BAD FOR YOUR TEETH
If you want to avoid the need for a root canal or the development of gum disease, one of the most important things you should do—in addition to maintaining a healthy dental care routine and visiting your dentist regularly—is to eat a nutritious diet. However, not all nutritious foods promote dental health. Read on to learn more about healthy foods that are surprisingly bad for your teeth.
Citrus Fruits
Grapefruits, oranges, lemons all contain large doses of Vitamin C and fiber, which help keep the body healthy and the immune system strong. However, citrus fruits also contain a lot of acid. Acid-containing foods erode tooth enamel over time, meaning that the teeth are more vulnerable to decay. In addition, highly acidic foods can cause irritation of the mouth and gums and make teeth more sensitive. Try rinsing your mouth with water or brushing your teeth after eating citrus fruits and other fruits that are high in acid, such as pineapples and strawberries.
Dried Fruits
Dried fruits are high in minerals, fiber, and vitamins. However, their sticky consistency can be destructive to the teeth. Sticky foods attach to the teeth and are hard to get out of the grooves and crevices of tooth enamel. Sticky foods promote tooth decay and can increase the likelihood that you will need a dental procedure such as a cavity filling or root canal. In addition, dried fruits have high concentrations of sugars. Although these sugars are natural, they still encourage tooth decay and can be detrimental to your oral health.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks typically contain vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes that are beneficial for athletes who engage in intense prolonged physical activity. Although sports drinks hydrate the body quickly, they can also degrade the teeth quickly. Most sports drinks are made with substantial amounts of sugar and can be equivalent in sugar content to a sweet soda. That’s why it’s best to avoid drinking sports drinks on a regular basis.
