While brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing, and visiting the dentist biannually are great oral health practices, you can also improve your dental hygiene by watching what you eat. Everyone experiences some degree of plaque, a bacteria-filled film that coats the teeth and can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Sugary foods and drinks can cause the bacteria found in plaque to release acids that attack your tooth's enamel. By avoiding food and drink that contains excessive amounts of sugar, you may spare yourself a cavity or two.

What Are Some Problematic Foods for Your Teeth?

1. Candies

Hard candies like lollipops are high in sugar content and can trigger additional dental problems like chipped or broken teeth. Similarly, sucking on these options causes the sugar to linger in your mouth, leaving you more susceptible to plaque if you don't brush and floss thoroughly. 

Sour candies often contain acids that are tougher on the teeth. When you're looking for something sweet and hoping to avoid an extra trip to the dentist for a cavity or damaged tooth, satisfy your cravings with xylitol mints or even dark chocolate. 

2. Acidic Fruits & Vegetables 

The pH scale ranges from 0 to14 and measures the acidity of food, beverages, and even your own saliva. Substances that fall below a seven on the pH scale are considered acidic. Acidic fruits, like oranges and lemons, can erode your enamel and cause tooth discoloration and sensitivity. Be mindful of the number of these you consume, and try to rinse your mouth with water after eating them to dilute the acids in your mouth.

3. Soft Drinks 

When you sip a soft drink, the sugars combine with the bacteria in your mouth to form an acid that attacks your teeth. This weakens your tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay. Teenagers and children can be especially susceptible to this as their tooth enamel is not fully developed. To best protect your teeth, opt for water whenever possible and drink water after consuming soda. Wait at least 30 minutes, and then brush your teeth. This prevents you from brushing away recently softened enamel.

If you're worried your diet has negatively affected your teeth, consult with a dental expert at Comfort Center for Dentistry in Comfort, TX. Welcoming patients from all of Kendall County, including the cities Boerne and Kerrville, TX, Dr. Kendall Wren will provide you with the individual care and attention needed to brighten your smile. From restorations to teeth cleanings, Dr. Wren will help you maintain exceptional oral hygiene. Schedule an appointment with a dentist today by calling (830) 995-5047 or by visiting their website.