Most of the plaque on your teeth is put there by the foods that you eat. When left sitting, this plaque can cause bacteria to develop which can bring about dental issues such as cavities or infection. While a great oral hygiene routine can help protect your mouth and teeth against plaque and cavities, it is also important to choose healthy foods to promote good oral health. The foods that cause the most plaque buildup on your teeth are: 

• Bread and crackers

Bread and crackers, while they are a favorite of many people, aren’t the best for your teeth. They are carbohydrates that can be broken down into simple sugars. As you chew these foods, they become soft and paste-like which allows them to stick to your teeth easier than other foods. They can also find their way into the crevices between and behind your teeth which can cause cavities. 

• Ice

Though ice can be a great addition to any drink, especially in the summer, it can cause great damage to your teeth. Those who chew ice frequently can develop chips in their teeth, damage to their tooth enamel, and sometimes their teeth can even crack. This is due to how hard ice is and the amount of force your jaw needs to apply in order to break it. 

• Coffee, tea, and wine

Coffee, tea, and wine all contain tannins, a yellowish or brownish ingredient found in plants. Frequent drinkers of these darker drinks may experience tooth staining due to the tannins, but the tannins can also stick onto the front of your teeth and break down your tooth enamel. This is because they contain acids and sugar, both of which are not great for your teeth. While you can reduce the staining of your teeth by brushing or rinsing your mouth after consuming any of these drinks, it is also important to consume coffee, tea, and wine in moderation. 

• Candies

We all know that sweets are not good for your teeth. Candies contain a large quantity of sugar, making them notorious for causing cavities. Hard candies can increase your risk of chipped, cracked or broken teeth. While the soft, chewy candies can stick on your teeth, penetrate the crevices in between the teeth, encouraging bacterial growth and dental problems. 

• Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and pineapples are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. But they are also highly acidic and consuming them often can weaken your tooth enamel and make it more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum infections. To fully enjoy the benefits of your citrus fruits without harming your teeth, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating them. 

• Soda

Another enemy of your teeth is soda. A typical soda contains sugar, acid, and carbonated water. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), people who consume soda, even if it’s sugar free, at least once a day have an increased risk of dental decay by 62%. 

For more information on your oral health and diet contact the dental experts at RenovaSmiles or come visit us at one of our many locations!