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The bacteria that cause tooth decay feed on the sugars and carbohydrates that are found in certain foods and drinks. When the bacteria break down these foods, they release acids that attack your teeth. The acids can break down the enamel, or the outer layer, of your teeth, causing tooth decay. Here is a list of a few foods that you should avoid to prevent tooth decay and cavities and to maintain good oral health.

Foods To Avoid For Better Oral Health

• Sugary Foods

Any food that contains a lot of sugar can be damaging to your teeth. Sugar is metabolized by bacteria in the mouth, producing an acid that can break down tooth enamel and cause cavities. Tooth decay is the most prevalent dental problem around the world, with 90% of American adults suffering from it. The bacteria in the mouth feed on any food that enters the mouth, not just sugary foods.

• Acidic Foods

Foods and drinks that are high in acids and sugars, such as lemons, oranges, and tomatoes, can damage your enamel. While these foods don’t necessarily taste sweet, they can cause cavities. Vinegar, which is high in acid, can damage your teeth as well. Saliva helps to wash away bacteria and food particles. However, if you consume food or drinks high in acidic content, it can damage the enamel, making it difficult for saliva to wash away the bacteria.

• Dry Foods

Dry foods, such as crackers, pretzels, and chips, can cause teeth to chip and crack. The hard texture can also damage tooth enamel. Sticking to soft, moist foods, such as yogurt, cheese, and soups, is the better choice.

• Sticky Foods

Sticky foods, such as candy and dried fruit, stick onto and in between teeth, providing food for oral bacteria. Limit your intake of sticky foods, and be sure to brush and floss thoroughly after consuming them.

• High Starch Foods

Starchy foods, including potato chips, cookies, pasta, and bread, break down into sugars in the mouth, which feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay. They also stick to teeth, which can lead to cavities.

• Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks

Sports drinks are one of the worst things you can drink for your oral health. They are typically high in sugar and acid, both of which contribute to tooth decay. Not only do sports drinks lead to cavities, but they can also lead to tooth sensitivity, which can make drinking them very uncomfortable.

• Alcohol

Alcohol is known for contributing to a number of health issues, including oral cancer. Sipping drinks over a prolonged period of time increases your chances of developing oral cancer. If you smoke cigarettes, drinking alcohol increases your risk of oral cancer even further.

• Coffee

Coffee can stain your teeth and leave them looking discolored or stained. And it can also cause problems with teeth discoloration. Since coffee is acidic, it can wear away your enamel over time. If you enjoy drinking coffee, make sure to drink some water after drinking it in order to rinse your teeth. Drinking water will help to protect your teeth from further staining.

Atlantic Dental, located in Denver, CO, is equipped with the latest amenities and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (720) 738-8888 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.