The Worst Foods for Your Oral Health

Our mouths are havens for bacteria — over 700 different species call it home. Some are beneficial for our oral health, and some are not. The harmful types break down sugars from the food and drink we consume, turning them into acids that, over time, pull essential minerals out of the teeth and cause decay and cavities.

What we eat can directly affect the types of bacteria that live inside us. At Los Gatos Family Dental, Dr. Tyler Young is passionate about educating patients in the Los Gatos, California, area about improving their dental hygiene. That’s why they’ve compiled this guide to the worst foods for oral health — and some of the best.

The worst foods for your oral health

There are many foods that do your mouth no service, but here are some of the worst culprits:

Sticky candies, especially sour ones

Most sticky candies, such as lollipops, caramels, and cough drops, have refined sugar, which is a bona fide feast for oral bacteria. Also, because they’re chewy, they stick to your teeth longer than other sweets. Sour candies, though, are the worst, as they contain more acid that eats away at your tooth enamel.

Some studies promote the effects of chocolate on preventing cavities, but the candy industry funds most of these studies and should be looked at dubiously. However, the American Dental Association (ADA) states that chocolate washes off the teeth more quickly than other candies, so a quick swish after eating should help preserve your oral health.

Bread

White bread contains a lot of starch, which your saliva breaks down into sugar. And when the bread is soft, it becomes a gummy paste-like substance when you chew, sticking to the crevices between teeth and causing cavities. Less-refined varieties like whole wheat contain less added sugars and don’t break down as easily, so they’re a better choice when looking for carbs.

Dried fruits

Yes, dried fruits are healthy, but many — apricots, prunes, figs, and raisins — are sticky.

The ADA warns that dried fruits are sticky and easily cling to the teeth surfaces and crevices, leaving sugar behind. With limited data about this, though, there needs to be more research performed.

If you eat dried fruits, rinse your mouth out with water afterward. Then, brush and floss. And consider eating the fresh versions instead, which have more water content and more diluted sugar.

Citrus fruits and juices

Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons have a lot of vitamin C and are refreshing as fruits and juices. However, they contain a lot of acid that can erode enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to decay. It’s best to consume them in moderation with other food that can help dilute them, and rinse your mouth afterward.

Carbonated drinks

There’s little positive to say about carbonated drinks. One study even found that drinking large quantities could damage your teeth as much as using methamphetamine and crack cocaine.

Carbonated sodas allow plaque buildup to produce more acid, which eats away the tooth enamel. In addition, it dries out your mouth, and saliva is essential for washing away food debris and bacteria.

The best foods for your oral health

The ADA offers these food and drink tips to help reduce the risk of tooth decay from the foods you eat:

Eat water-containing fruits and vegetables

Foods like celery, carrots, and apples contain high amounts of water, which washes away debris and plaque-producing bacteria. Instead of reaching for a sugary snack, try a healthier option instead.

Chew sugarless gum

The ADA has placed their seal of approval on a number of sugarless gums. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which washes away harmful bacteria.

Try cheese, milk, and, yogurt

Cheese is a great food for healthy teeth. First, it’s low in sugar and high in calcium, the latter of which is important for maintaining bone density. Second, it contains casein, a protein that fortifies tooth enamel. Third, it contains a high phosphate content, which helps balance pH (acid) levels in the mouth. And last, it increases saliva production to wash away bacteria.

Milk also contains a lot of calcium and other elements, and, like cheese, it lowers the acid levels in your mouth.

Plain yogurt contains calcium and probiotics that protect against cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath.

Drink fluoridated water

Fluoridated water helps prevent tooth decay. If you go with bottled water, check the label to see if it contains fluoride.

Want more tips to improve your oral health? Contact Los Gatos Family Dental by calling us at 408-356-2049 or booking an appointment online.