Foods (and drinks) that secretly ruin your tooth enamel include:
- Sticky, Sugary Foods: Hard candy, taffy, dehydrated fruit and similar snacks
- Condiments: Ketchup, mayo, mustard and other sweet or acidic dressings
- Coffee: Dry mouth, tooth stains, acids and tannins
- Acidic Fruits and Juices: Citrus fruit and fruit juice
- Starch: Chips, crackers and white bread
Chewing on non-food items, such as pens and clips, can also damage your enamel.
Taking Care of Your Smile While Enjoying Your Favourites
Of course, you don’t have to eliminate every food and drink that may harm your enamel. Instead, consider moderation and healthy aftercare.
For example, limit coffee to a few times a week rather than sipping it all day, and choose water over juice most of the time.
If you do indulge, be sure to brush, floss or rinse soon after and continue visiting your dentist in Charlestown, NSW, every six months for dental checks and teeth cleans.
We do strongly urge you to never chew on pens, ice, paperclips or similar items.
Recommended Practices for a Healthy Smile
It’s always best to choose healthy snacks and drinks. However, if you work outside the home or are always on the go, you may find yourself grabbing whatever is convenient.
Consider packing a healthy lunch each day to avoid stopping for food throughout the day. Instead of soda and a white bread sandwich, consider water and low-fat yogurt, with nuts. If you drink coffee, follow it up with a glass of water to help rehydrate your mouth. Finally, carry a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste in your car.
For additional tips and tricks or those customised to your lifestyle, talk to a dental team member.
Is It Time for Your Next Check and Clean?
If it’s time for your next check and clean or if you have questions for our dental team, we welcome your call on (02) 4942 1633.