Food Items That Cause Cavities

In a world full of a wide variety of food items, you need to understand that there are some that are worse for your teeth. They can affect your oral health and make your teeth prone to cavities. Some of them are mentioned below.

Sugary Foods

Sugary foods can cause tooth decay in two ways. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids as a byproduct. These acids wear away the tooth enamel and can cause cavities.

If you have a sweet tooth, choose sugar-free snacks instead. And brush and floss your teeth after you eat sweets.

Starchy Foods

Starchy foods are the biggest perpetrators when it comes to cavities. The bacteria in your mouth feed on the starch found in these foods and produce acids that wear down tooth enamel. Try to avoid sticky snacks like pretzels, potato chips, and crackers as much as possible.

Acidic Foods

Anything that is highly acidic will erode the enamel on your teeth. Sodas, fruit juices, and energy drinks are all examples of acidic foods and drinks. Some foods, however, are acidic but should not be avoided. Some dairy products like yogurt and cheese are acidic but should be eaten in moderation because they are also good for your teeth.

Hard Foods

Hard foods, such as ice, nuts, and candies should be avoided. Hard foods may crack teeth, especially if the teeth are weak. A cracked tooth may need a filling, but in some cases, a cracked tooth may require a crown.

Hard foods may also cause jaw strain, which can result in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Your TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.

Dry Foods

Dry foods that are loaded with sugars and carbohydrates can increase the amount of plaque that builds up on your teeth. If they are not thoroughly brushed away, then plaque can eventually lead to cavities and decay.

Sticky Foods

Sticky candies and foods, such as caramel, taffy, and toffee, can be especially bad for your teeth. They cling to your teeth and are difficult to remove, which allows cavity-causing bacteria to build up.

Vitamin-C Rich Foods

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruit, bell peppers, and kiwi. Other foods high in vitamin C include papayas, broccoli, and strawberries. However, it’s not the amount of vitamin C found in foods that causes cavities but rather the acidity of the food or drink. When a food or drink is acidic, it can damage the tooth enamel.

For more tips, visit Table Mountain at 6410 Miller St #15, Arvada, CO 80004. Contact us at (720) 749-2711 for any questions or concerns you have. Also, schedule an appointment online to visit us.