6 Harmful Foods That Can Cause Tooth Decay

Plaque can be caused by a variety of foods and beverages, and seriously damage your teeth. Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-filled film that causes gum disease and tooth decay. Sugars trigger bacteria to generate acids that destroy tooth enamel when you eat a sugary snack. Cavities can occur as the enamel breaks down. 

According to the Centers for Condition Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease among people aged 6 to 19 years old. Complications include pain, chewing difficulties, and tooth abscesses. Plaque hardens and turns into tartar if you don't clean or floss your teeth. Gingivitis, or gum disease in its early stages, can be caused by tartar above the gum line.

Continue reading to discover the six harmful foods that can cause tooth decay.

1. Sour candies

It's hardly surprising that candy is unhealthy for your teeth. However, sour candy is an even greater evil because of its bigger variety of acids that are more harmful to your teeth. Furthermore, as they're chewy, they stick to your teeth for a longer period of time, increasing the risk of tooth decay. If you want something sweet, try a square of chocolate, which you can chew fast and easily wash away.

2. Bread

Think twice before buying bread at the store. The carbohydrates in bread are broken down by saliva into sugar when you eat it. The bread turns into a sticky paste-like substance that sticks to the gaps between teeth and causes cavities. If you want some carbs, go for whole wheat or other less-refined options. They have fewer added sugars and are less difficult to break down.

3. Alcohol

We all know that consuming alcohol isn't beneficial for you. But do you know that drinking causes your mouth to dry out? Saliva is needed to keep our teeth healthy. Saliva washes away food particles and keeps food from sticking to your teeth. It even helps in the prevention of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral problems in their early stages. Drinking plenty of water, using fluoride rinses and oral hydration treatments help keep your mouth moisturized.

4. Carbonated drinks

Even though the package of your soda says that it’s a "diet" one, we all know it provides you with no benefits. Leading dentists say drinking huge amounts of carbonated soda can be just as bad for your teeth as doing illegal drugs. During consumption of carbonated sodas, plaque produces more acid, which attacks tooth enamel. So, if you drink soda all day, your teeth will be coated in acid. It also dries out your mouth, resulting in less saliva. Finally, dark-colored beverages have the potential to discolor or stain your teeth. But don't brush your teeth right after drinking a soda, as this can worsen tooth decay.

5. Ice

Do you think chewing ice is okay because it's only made up of water? According to the American Dental Association, this is not true. Chewing on hard stuff damages enamel, putting you at risk for dental problems including chipped, cracked, or damaged teeth, as well as loosened crowns. Ice can be used to chill beverages, but it should not be chewed. Just consume cooled water or non-iced liquids.

6. Citrus

Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are high in vitamin C and delicious as both fruits and juices. But their acidic content can dissolve enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Even squeezing a lemon or lime into the water makes a drink more acidic. Furthermore, citric acid might irritate mouth sores. Eat and drink them in moderation at lunch to get a dosage of their antioxidants and vitamins, and then rinse your mouth with water afterward.