1. Sugary Foods & Drinks
Candies, cookies, cakes, and sugary beverages like sodas and fruit juices are major culprits. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars, producing acids that erode tooth enamel and cause decay. Care.DentalCenter.com+2World of Dentistry+2Mathis+2
2. Acidic Beverages
Drinks such as soda, sports drinks, and energy drinks are highly acidic. They can weaken tooth enamel over time, increasing the risk of cavities and sensitivity.
3. Citrus Fruits & Juices
Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and their juices are rich in vitamin C but also contain citric acid. Frequent consumption can erode enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to decay. Mathis+3Healthline+3Mill Bay Dental Health+3
4. Sticky & Sour Candies
Sour candies and gummies are sticky and high in sugar, adhering to teeth and providing a constant food source for decay-causing bacteria. World of Dentistry
5. Starchy Foods
Chips, bread, and pasta can break down into sugars and get trapped between teeth, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Mill Bay Dental Health+1Crisafulli Dental+1
6. Ice
Chewing on ice can crack or chip teeth, especially if you have dental work like fillings or crowns. Healthline
7. Wine & Coffee
Both red wine and coffee can stain teeth over time. Their dark pigments and acidity can lead to discoloration and enamel wear. Glamour
8. Dried Fruits
Dried fruits like raisins and apricots are sticky and contain concentrated sugars, which can adhere to teeth and promote decay. Crisafulli Dental+1Mill Bay Dental Health+1
Healthy Alternatives
To maintain strong teeth, consider incorporating these into your diet:
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Cheese and yogurt (rich in calcium)
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Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery
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Apples and pears (stimulate saliva production)
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Nuts and seeds (provide essential nutrients)
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Water (helps rinse away food particles)
Pro Tips
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Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss daily to remove food particles between teeth.
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Limit snacking between meals to reduce acid attacks on teeth.
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Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.