If you are quite content with just seeing your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning, it might interest you to know that there are some foods you should avoid that could create the need for extra appointments. Here’s the worst of the worst and how you can minimize the dangers if you do decide to keep them in your diet.
- Soda – You are getting a double whammy with soda. The acidity and the sugar are tough on your teeth. If you can’t give up the soda, consider drinking it through a straw to avoid bathing your entire mouth in soda with each swallow. Sports and energy drinks are just as bad – in fact they can be worse because they are usually more acidic.
- Citrus – Lemons and limes can make your teeth very sensitive because they can pull the enamel right off when you suck on them directly. You will end up with yellow teeth that even professional whitening cannot resolve.
- Dried Fruit and Sticky Candy – Both of these have high sugar content and because of their sticky nature, that sugar stays put far too long. If you cannot resist, be sure to brush your teeth immediately after consuming.
- Alcohol – Most know about how wine can stain your teeth, but the reality is that all alcohol dries out your mouth, which reduces saliva that is needed to keep plaque under control. Moderate drinking is advisable rather than imbibing on large quantities.
- Ice – Chewing on ice is very detrimental to your teeth. The coldness makes them more brittle and one wrong move and you’ll have a chip or crack to contend with in the dentist chair.
- Carbohydrates – Processed foods are basically sugars which you already know aren’t great for avoiding the dentist. Brushing after a meal with processed carbohydrates is advisable.
Here at Northside Family Dental, we want you to have the facts about how to avoid coming in to see the dentist any more than is necessary for good oral health. We love to see you, of course, but we are happiest if you can keep your visits to twice a year instead. Feel free to call us with any questions you may have.