Our oral health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Poor oral health does not manifest in only toothaches or sore gums. It may also affect other bodily functions and lead to serious problems. Taking care of our teeth is a fundamental part of oral health. Unfortunately, we often take our teeth for granted. We eat and drink without being mindful of the effect on our teeth, as long as we don't feel any pain. But it is essential that our diet also takes teeth health into account. This will allow our teeth to become stronger and reduce the risk of grave oral health issues.
Here Are 5 Foods And Drinks To Avoid For Healthy Teeth:
1. White bread
The refined carbohydrates in white bread can hurt your teeth health
Consuming foods high in refined carbs, like white bread, can negatively impact your teeth. According to Ms. Shalini Arvind, Chief Dietitian at Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru, when simple carbohydrates are "broken down by the bacteria by the process of fermentation, [they] produce acidic by-products (organic acids) which results in demineralization of the teeth." Thus, you might find yourself at greater risk of developing teeth cavities if you eat processed bread regularly.
2. Potato chips:
Just like white bread, potato chips are high in simple carbohydrates. This starch is converted into sugar while munching and cavity-causing bacteria feed on it. Moreover, pieces of the chips tend to get stuck in between teeth and can cause further decay if they are not dislodged.
3. Candies and Chocolates
Foods high in sugar are one of the biggest culprits behind tooth decay
It is well known that too much sugar can greatly damage your teeth. Most candies and store-bought chocolates contain too much sugar and should be avoided as far as possible. Remember that these are not natural sugars but added sugars and ingredients like high fructose corn syrup. If left unchecked, their regular intake can harm your gums and also pose other serious health risks.
4. Fruit juices
Most fruit juices tend to be acidic in nature, and this can harm your teeth' enamel. If they're made using citrus fruits like oranges, grapes, lemon, etc. the effect may be even worse. Furthermore, we often tend to add sugar to sweeten these juices while making them at home. Packaged versions contain even higher amounts of sugar. The acid and sugar together can pose a serious problem for your oral health. Hence, you should monitor your consumption of fruit juices, especially if you have pre-existing teeth problems.
5. Fizzy Drinks
Most sodas and carbonated beverages are extremely high in sugar. Furthermore, their acidic nature can worsen oral health. When your teeth' enamel comes in contact with these fizzy drinks, it tends to start eroding. Experts advise against brushing your teeth immediately after consuming such drinks because your enamel is weakened and exposed. You must also avoid keeping sips of these drinks for a long time in your mouth - gulp them down quickly.
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How To Prevent Tooth Decay? 5 Key Tips For Healthy Teeth
1. Include calcium-rich foods in your diet
If you are calcium deficient, your teeth can become more prone to decay. Photo Credit: iStock
Calcium helps keep your teeth strong and prevents easy decay. Try consuming dairy products like milk, curds and paneer to keep up your calcium intake. Green leafy veggies like spinach are also a good option.
Also Read: Milk Isn't The Only Way To Get Calcium: 6 Delicious Alternatives
2. Apples can keep dentists away too
Apples are high in water and fibre. They can improve your gum health and promote the production of saliva. Apples are not highly acidic or overly sweet, making them a better option than citrus fruits.
3. Keep up your water intake
A dry mouth can quickly become a breeding ground for plaque and bacteria. Drinking water regularly helps guard against this and also promotes the production of saliva. Thus, water plays a simple but important role in oral health.
4. Rinse your mouth
Experts suggest rinsing your mouth every time after eating something, not only after main meals of the day. If you're someone who snacks often, you need to be especially careful. Rinsing your mouth helps remove food particles wedged between the teeth and also keeps your mouth clean and free of harmful bacteria.
5. Never forget to brush your teeth
Since childhood, we have been taught the importance of brushing our teeth twice a day. Spend around 2 minutes each time to properly brush your teeth and rid them of all harmful elements. This is the golden rule of oral health. Even when you're feeling lazy, avoid skipping this basic step.
Keep all these points in mind and take good care of your teeth.
Also Read: Brushing Your Teeth with Baking Soda: Is it Safe or Not?
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.