Many think avoiding sugar means we are also safe from cavities. However, our favorite snacks and beverages often contain more cavity-causing properties than we imagine.
5 Surprising Foods and Beverages Causing Cavities
1. Starchy Foods
Potatoes, bread, and pasta all contain high amounts of starch, which can break down into sugars that feed bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acid that wears away your tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Make sure to brush and floss after eating starchy foods, and drink plenty of water to help wash away any remaining debris.
2. Citrus Fruits and Juices
Although citrus fruits are generally considered healthy, they are highly acidic and can erode your enamel when consumed often. Lemon water and fruit juices like orange juice can also lead to cavities. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
3. Crackers
Many crackers, including Goldfish, contain refined carbohydrates that can easily stick to your teeth, fueling acid-producing bacteria that cause cavities. Choose whole-grain crackers instead, or have a cheese pairing that will dissolve the starch particles and rinse them away.
5. Sports Drinks
Although advertised as healthy and useful in hydrating the body, sports drinks can cause tooth decay. These drinks can carry as much as two-thirds of your recommended daily amount of sugar recommended for an adult in just one bottle. Limit your intake and rinse your mouth with water after drinking to ensure the acid does not sit on your teeth longer than necessary.
5. Dried Fruits
Dried fruits are popular and convenient snacks packed with vitamins and nutrients. However, they can cause cavities as they contain loads of sugar and are sticky, making it easy for the sugar to cling to your teeth for a more extended period. Have them sparingly and rinse your mouth with water after eating.
Bonus tip: Swap the raisins and dates with fresh fruits to get the same nutritional benefits without the cavity-causing sugars.
Cavities can be a real pain, but avoiding them is easier when we know the right foods to stay away from. Remember to brush and floss daily, limit your sugar intake, and incorporate healthy habits into your routine, like rinsing your mouth with water and drinking plenty of it. Maintaining good oral hygiene ensures your parents, friends, and dentist continue seeing your perfect smile, so think twice before consuming your next snack or beverage.
Contact our team online or call us at (845) 209-2500 to find out more information about our in-office Port Jervis teeth whitening procedure!