With summer right around the corner, we want to make sure our pearly whites stay bright and cavity free. To avoid cavities, it’s important to know the main cause of tooth decay and what foods to stay away from. The good thing is, it’s easy! Just simply ask yourself, “is this acidic or sweet?”
We’re not saying you must stay away from these foods, but just try and reduce the frequency of consumption. For instance, if you would like to enjoy a cold pop on a warm summer day, it is best to do so in a short period of time, as in 5-10 mins, rather than sipping on it throughout the day. The reason being, after 20 minutes, the sugar on your teeth causes bacteria and becomes acidic; thus, increasing your risk of tooth decay. If you can’t brush for hours, be sure to rinse with tap water, as this will help reduce the amount of sugar that could be adhering to your teeth.
Acidic foods that should be consumed in moderation are: sour candies, citrus fruits, tomato products, pickles, cranberries, and even wine.
Sweet or starchy foods that should be reduced in your diet include soft drinks, or sugar sweetened beverages, sticky dried fruits, bread, pasta, and other foods high in carbohydrates.