Dentist in Accra Explains How Foods Affect Your Teeth

You have heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” which not only applies to your overall well-being, but to your teeth and gums as well. The foods and drinks you consume can either hurt or help your dental health. However, determining which are beneficial can be a challenge. While certain foods may seem healthy, like citrus fruits, they are actually harmful because they are acidic, which will weaken the enamel. To help protect your smile from damage while promoting its health, your dentist in Accra at Bethel Dental has the information you need for a well-balanced diet.

Which Foods will Hurt My Smile?

Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acid are harmful to your teeth. Over time, they slowly eat away at your enamel, leading to tooth decay. This is also true for foods that tend to be sticky, which cling to the teeth and are difficult to remove. When preparing your meals and snacks, it is best to avoid:

Citrus: Lemons, oranges, and limes contain a lot of citric acid, which is a leading cause for enamel erosion and tooth decay.

Pickles: Prepared with vinegar and sugar, they weaken the enamel.

Coffee: Coffee contains tannic acids, which not only eat away at the enamel but also lead to tooth discoloration. It is always best to drink water whenever possible.

Wine: A glass of wine produces the same effects as coffee. It is highly acidic while red wine is also known to cause staining of the teeth.

As a rule of thumb, limit your consumption of any foods and drinks that are high in sugar, like soda, candy, and cookies. In addition, avoid those that are darkly pigmented, like berries and tomatoes, which can stain the teeth.

Which Foods are Beneficial to My Dental Health?

Often, foods will leave a slimy film on the teeth, which increases your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. However, there are many that remove this accumulation while also creating healthy gums and teeth to ward off potential dental problems.

Low-Fat Dairy Products: Dairy products contain calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for strong enamel. Make sure your diet includes low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, and eggs.

Meats: Meat, fish, and even tofu contain phosphorus, a mineral that is known to protect the enamel.

Dark Leafy Vegetables: Vegetables are loaded with an array of vitamins and minerals. Eat plenty of leafy vegetables, kale, and broccoli.

Crunchy Vegetables: Celery, carrots, and similarly crunchy vegetables contain a lot of water, which increases saliva production to naturally cleanse the teeth.

To keep your teeth and gums healthy, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables that will help cleanse the teeth while providing vital minerals and vitamins. If you cannot avoid damaging foods, it is best to brush your teeth immediately or rinse your mouth with water.

How Can I Protect My Smile?

In addition to your diet, you need to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Do not forget to visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Contact Bethel Dental today to schedule your appointment.