Do you know what foods cause tooth decay? Many people believe that it’s all about what you drink, but it’s also important to consider what you eat when trying to keep your teeth healthy and strong! Here are some of the worst foods for your dental health, along with suggestions for healthier alternatives.
Read more: What Foods Cause Tooth Decay? Stay Away From Them
8 Root Causes of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a serious problem that can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. But what causes it? Here are eight of the most common culprits Carbohydrates- this food category includes breads, pastas, potatoes and other starchy foods
Dairy Products- milk, cheese, butter
Fruits- apples and oranges contain a lot of sugar which speeds up the process of decay
Grains- breads as well as pasta
Vegetables- this category includes tomatoes as well as peppers Protein Rich Foods- meats such as ham or bacon have been shown to increase teeth acidity levels while cheeses have also been linked with higher risk for tooth decay
Improper brushing
Tooth decay is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Over time, this acid can break down tooth enamel and cause cavities. Improper brushing can also contribute to tooth decay by not removing all the plaque from your teeth.
Sugary Drinks and Foods
One of the main causes of tooth decay are sugary drinks and foods. When sugar is consumed, it reacts with the bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid then attacks your teeth, causing decay. The more sugar you consume, the more acid is produced, and the greater the risk of tooth decay. You can help combat this by brushing your teeth at least twice a day (morning and night) with fluoride toothpaste. You should also make sure to eat healthy snacks like carrots or celery rather than chips or sweets that may cause cavities. Drinking water can also help wash away any food particles that may have remained on your teeth after eating.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth, but many people don’t get enough of it. A vitamin D deficiency can lead to tooth decay, as well as other health problems. Get the amount you need by taking a supplement or spending time in the sun. Eating a healthy diet with calcium-rich foods will also help maintain healthy teeth.
Pregnancy and Nursing
When you’re pregnant or nursing, you need to be extra careful about the foods you eat. Some foods can cause tooth decay, which can lead to serious health problems for you and your baby. Here are some of the worst offenders – Sodas: These contain a lot of sugar that bacteria feeds on, leading to tooth decay. The acids in these drinks also break down teeth’s enamel and make them weaker. If you’re going to drink soda pop during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, choose one that is low in sugar like Sprite Zero or Diet Coke (remember these may still have caffeine).
– Sugary treats: Sugar causes bacteria in the mouth to produce acid that will dissolve teeth enamel.
Exposure to Fluoride in Tap Water
Fluoride is a mineral that is found in many foods and in all types of water. It is also added to some toothpastes. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel stronger. However, too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, which leads to tooth decay. There are many factors that contribute to how much fluoride a person is exposed to, including where they live, what they eat and drink, and their oral hygiene habits.
Dairy Products, Cereals, and Other Processed Grains
Tooth decay is caused by a combination of things, but one of the main culprits is the bacteria that live in your mouth. These bacteria feed on sugary and starchy foods, which then produces acid that attacks your teeth. Dairy products, cereals, and other processed grains are all high in sugar and starch, which makes them ideal food for these bacteria. Plus, these foods are often sticky, which means they can cling to your teeth and cause even more damage.
