The Top 5 Foods That Can Do the Most Damage to Your Teeth

February 8, 2023

 
We all know that sugary treats and carbonated drinks can cause cavities, but did you know there are other foods out there that can be just as damaging to your teeth?


Here are the top 5 foods that can do the most damage to your teeth.


Coffee - coffee can stain your teeth and make them appear yellow.

Coffee has always been a popular morning beverage, but it may come as a surprise that coffee can really take a toll on your teeth. 

Coffee beans contain chromogens, which are pigments that stick to the enamel of your teeth, resulting in staining and making them appear yellow. Luckily, there are ways to combat this issue. 


Daily flossing and brushing with whitening toothpaste can help remove any coffee stains from the surface of your teeth. Additionally, drinking an acidic beverage like lemon water after coffee can reduce the acidity of coffee's natural compounds and lessen its staining effect, too. 


Ultimately, revving up your oral hygiene routine is a great way to keep your teeth looking brighter for longer - even if you're a coffee addict!

Tea - tea can also stain your teeth and make them appear yellow.

Tea is a beloved drink that has been enjoyed for centuries - its delicate flavor and soothing warmth a go-to when we need a little boost.


But unfortunately, drinking tea can lead to an unexpected side effect: yellowed teeth. Though this may not be an issue immediately, over time the acids and pigments in certain teas can start to take a toll on your smile, leading to stained and discolored teeth.


So if you like your tea habit but don't want your grin to suffer, consider rinsing your mouth with water every few sips and brushing with whitening toothpaste afterwards, as this can help combat any potential staining effects of tea.

Wine - wine can dry out your teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities.

Wine can be a fun and tasty way to relax after a long day, but it is important to remember that indulging in too much of it can take a toll on your teeth. 


Drinking wine has been known to dry out the teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities. If you are an avid wine drinker, avoiding cavities and maintaining good oral care is paramount. 


Make sure you brush your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once a day, and don't forget to visit the dentist for regular cleanings. Careful and consistent practices are the best way to protect and preserve your smile for years to come!

Soda - soda is full of sugar which can lead to tooth decay.

Soda has become an increasingly popular drink, but its high sugar content can have negative consequences on our oral health. 


Not only is it full of sugar, but soda also contains acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. In addition to cavities, studies show that drinking soda can put you at risk for gum disease, periodontal problems, and even jawbone loss.


 These risks are especially pronounced if we are consuming soda multiple times a day, as the high levels of sugar can damage our teeth and gums over time. 


Ultimately we should be mindful of our intake of carbonated beverages if we want to keep our pearly whites in good shape!

Candy - candy is also full of sugar which can lead to tooth decay.

If there's one fun treat that everyone loves, it's candy! 


From sweet chocolate bars to gummy bears, this is definitely a crowd-pleaser. With its sugary sweetness, candy can make us feel like we're kids again. 


Unfortunately, it can also damage our teeth. Since most sweets are packed with sugar, eating too much of them can cause cavities and decay. 


Even though we shouldn't overindulge when it comes to candy, it does not mean that we should miss out entirely! Eating the occasional sweet treat in moderation will make sure your smile stays healthy and strong.

Taking care of your teeth should be one of your top priorities!


Regular brushing and flossing can help slow the process of discoloration. However, depending on how much you consume coffee, tea, red and white wine, soda and candy, they are all things that can contribute to discoloration or even tooth decay.


So with moderation in mind, you can still enjoy consuming them without as large a risk. If you do find yourself consuming these items more than recommended, consider using a straw to reduce contact with your teeth and also rinse or brush your mouth after consumption.


But don’t worry if the damage has already been done - there are treatments available for yellowed or stained teeth that have been caused by lifestyle choices.


Speak to us here at Smile Designs about what options would work best for you! It's important that you stay on top of regular dental checkups in order to maintain good oral health.


Want to schedule an appointment? Give us a call today!