The Best and Worst Food for Your Teeth

We are what we eat. This is particularly true for our teeth. When we drink or munch on sugary or starchy foods, we’re feeding ourselves and the bacteria which can cause plaque build-up on your teeth. Plaque is an invisible and thin layer of sticky bacteria and other materials which cover the surface of your teeth. When starch and sugar come into contact with the plaque, the acids can attach to your teeth. Repeated attacks can break down the hard teeth enamel. This is the leading cause of tooth decay. Though some foods encourage tooth decay, others help fight against plaque buildup. Here are some foods you can seek out and others to avoid.

Some Suggested Foods

• Fruits and Vegetables

Foods with fibre have a cleansing effect on your teeth as they get saliva flowing. Next to good home dental care, this is the best natural defence against cavities and tooth decay. Approximately 20 minutes after consuming something starchy or sugary, the saliva reduces the effects of enzymes and acids attacking your teeth. Saliva also contains traces of phosphate and calcium. It helps restore minerals to the areas which have lost them due to the bacterial acids.

• Dairy Products like milk, Yogurt Cheese Etc.

Cheese also helps in making saliva. The calcium in the cheese along with the phosphate and calcium in milk and other dairy products help restore minerals to your teeth.

• Black and Green Teas

Both types contain polyphenols which interact with plaque bacteria. These substances either hold back or kill the bacteria. This prevents them from producing acid which attacks teeth. Brew your tea depending on the type of water you use. A cup of tea can also be a good source of fluoride.

• Foods with Fluoride

Fluorinated water or any product made using that water helps your teeth. This includes dehydrated soups and even powdered juices, as long as it doesn’t have too much sugar. Commercially prepared foods such as seafood, powdered cereals and poultry products can also provide fluoride. 

Foods to avoid

• Sticky Sweets and Candies

If you eat sweets, always go for the ones which don’t stay in your mouth for too long. Say no to caramels, cough drops, lollipops or anything else that contains refined sugar.

• Carbonated Soft Drinks

These sugary drinks are one of the leading sources of added sugar among youngsters. Apart from being loaded with sugar, these drinks also contain citric and phosphoric acid which wears away the tooth enamel.

• Starchy Foods

Starchy foods can easily get stuck in between your teeth. Hence, potato chips and soft breads are best avoided.

Developing cavities can cause sensitivity and pain. It can greatly damage your teeth as well. With the right habit and care, you can live your life, cavity free.