What Kinds of Foods Are Harmful for Teeth?

Snacking is an activity we all do and what we choose to snack on is important. Snacks that are full of sugar such as candy or cake may taste good, but are not good for our teeth. In addition to the sugar these types of snacks contain large amounts of fat. Sugary snacks if eaten regularly can cause tooth decay. At our practice, we provide our patients with guidelines for healthy eating, and always promote healthy choices to keep teeth free of harmful bacteria.

How Can Sugary Snacks Impact My Teeth?

Our mouths contain bacteria, and this bacteria forms a sticky material called plaque. The plaque sticks on or in-between our teeth and this can cause decay. When sugary snacks are eaten the bacteria in the mouth gravitates towards the sugar, and turns the sugar into acids. This acid can damage the hard enamel that covers our teeth, and cause cavities to begin to develop. Staying away from snacks or foods filled with sugar can help keep the bacteria in your mouth from producing the acid that causes decay.

How Should I Choose A Healthy Snack?

When you have that urge to snack take a minute to ask yourself if the snack you chose contains sugar. If it does, you may want to choose another snack that would be healthier for your teeth. Staying away from gooey sweets or snacks that are very chewy is a good rule of thumb. These types of snacks can stick to the surface of your teeth and take longer to remove, exposing your teeth to sugar longer. If you do choose to eat sweets, it may be best to save that type of snack for after a main meal instead of having that snack between meals. 

We work to teach our pediatric and adult patients the benefits of healthy eating. Taking care of our oral health not only includes brushing or flossing, but it includes making healthy eating choices. Staying away from snacks full of sugar can help prevent cavities, and keep your teeth looking and feeling great. Brushing your teeth after eating a sweet with a fluoride toothpaste can remove any harmful bacteria that may cause cavities if left on our teeth.

What Types of Snacks Are a Good Choice?

There are many good tasting and healthy shacks on the market today that are less harmful to our teeth and body. Sticking to snacks that are lower in sugar can help protect our teeth from decay or other diseases. Choosing foods like fruits or vegetables, and crackers or bread are good choices. It may be helpful to make a healthy food list that you pick from when snacking or eating. This can help you make good choices and stay away from those harmful sugary foods.

Examples of Smart Food Choices That Are Less Likely to Cause Tooth Decay

Fresh Vegetables of Fruits

• Oranges
• Bananas
• Apples
• Grapefruit
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes

Grains

• Unsweetened cereals
• Popcorn
• Bread
• Bagels
• Pasta
• Crackers

Milk and Dairy Products

• Low or non-fat milk
• Low or non-fat cheese
• Low or non-fat yogurt

Meat, Nuts, Seeds

• Chicken
• Turkey
• Nuts

Looking For a Dentist?

Many foods or snacks are harmful to our teeth and body. At our practice, we care about the overall health of each patient, and always promotes healthy snacking and eating. Checking the label and sugar content can help you make the right decision for healthy snacking. Choosing a variety of foods from the basic food groups can help you eat a balanced diet, and keep your teeth looking and feeling healthy. Brushing and flossing daily as well as attending your regular dental exams in our office can help keep your oral health in check. Our team works diligently to not only care for your teeth, but care for your overall health.

If you are looking for a dentist, our team is happy to help. To get more information or to schedule your dental exam, contact us  and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!