What you eat doesn’t just affect your body, as it has a big impact on your teeth and gums, too. Some foods can help keep your mouth healthy, while others can lead to cavities, gum problems, and tooth decay. Brands like Candid, which focus on oral health and alignment, also emphasize the importance of diet in maintaining a strong, healthy smile. If you want a strong, healthy smile, it’s important to know which foods to avoid.
How Junk Food Can Harm Your Teeth
Most junk foods are full of fats, sugars, and refined carbs. When these leftovers mix with your saliva and stay on your teeth, they create a sticky film called plaque.
If this plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it can slowly damage your teeth by breaking down the outer layer called enamel. This leads to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and other dental problems. That’s why it’s important to eat foods that support your oral health.
The 5 Worst Foods for Your Teeth
Sugary and Fizzy Drinks
Sodas and sweet drinks are loaded with sugar. When that sugar mixes with the natural bacteria in your mouth, it creates acid. This acid attacks your tooth enamel and causes it to wear down. Over time, this might result in tooth discomfort, deterioration, and cavities.
Sticky Candy
Chewy candy, such as caramels or gummy bears, is difficult to get off your teeth. They often get stuck in the small spaces between your teeth and stay there for a long time. This gives harmful bacteria more time to feed on the sugar and grow, which increases your risk of tooth decay.
Starchy Snacks
Chips, crackers, and other starchy foods may not taste sweet, but they turn into sugar in your mouth. Once that happens, the sugar reacts with bacteria to produce acid, which eats away enamel. If not properly cleaned, these treats can adhere to your teeth and increase your risk of developing cavities.
Alcohol
Drinks like wine, beer, or liquor can cause dry mouth by reducing saliva production. Saliva is important because it helps wash away food and bacteria. When your mouth is dry, it becomes easier for plaque and acid to build up, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
Ice and Very Cold Foods
Chewing on ice or exposing your teeth to extreme cold can cause tiny cracks in your enamel. Repeated temperature changes can stress your teeth and cause chips or fissures. This makes your teeth more vulnerable to damage and sensitivity.
Better Food Choices for a Healthy Smile
To take care of your teeth, it’s a good idea to swap out harmful foods with better ones. You can try avoiding sugary and sticky treats, and focus on foods like:
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots)
- Dairy products (like cheese and yogurt)
- Sugar-free gum or candy
These foods help clean your teeth and increase saliva flow, which protects against harmful acids.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding certain foods might help keep your teeth and gums healthy in the long term. Pair that with good brushing and flossing habits, and your mouth will thank you!