Foods That Aren't Doing Your Teeth Any Favors

People often say that you are what you eat, and this statement applies equally as well for your teeth. When you eat foods that are high in sugar and starch, you are feeding the plaque that will wreak havoc in your mouth. What you eat and how you eat it can affect your dental health tremendously, and many people would be surprised at the types of foods that have a pernicious effect on your teeth. Your teeth are covered by a layer of enamel, and foods that have a high level of acid or a lot of sugar that can be converted into acid are especially harmful to that protective layer. Here is a list of foods that are especially harmful to your teeth: 

Having a mint after you just finished off a plate of spaghetti and garlic bread may seem like the right thing to do, but there is a chance that you can be doing more harm than good. People often suck on mints, cough drops or hard candies, and since the lozenge ends up sitting in one place for an extended period of time, you normally get a very concentrated build-up of acid. If you are going to have a mint, try one that is sugar-free. 

Whenever we consume something that sticks to our teeth we can expect a buildup of acid and plaque. Since saliva can't contact that part of your tooth to neutralize the acid or remineralize the area, your tooth suffers an extra impact from acid buildup, causing a greater loss of enamel. The same thing applies for foods that are salubrious, like dried fruit. If you find yourself tempted to eat something that falls into this category, make sure that you brush your teeth when you are finished. 

Sports drinks that contain a high level of carbohydrates cause plaque to form at faster-than-normal rates. This applies for any viscous, sweet liquid. In the case of sports drinks, they are acidic to begin with, but thick liquid also has a tendency to stick to your teeth for long periods of time.

Foods that are more on the alkaline side of the Ph scale are better for your teeth than many other choices as well as foods that are high in fiber. When it comes to hydrating your body, it is best to drink plain old water. According to a specialist at dental marketing company, who deals with direct mail campaigns for dentists, if you are just starting your better habits it is important to go to the dentist to get your teeth checked out. Good luck, and healthy eating.