You know that soda and sugary candy aren’t the best choices when it comes to your smile. Cutting back on these treats is a good idea, but there are plenty of other foods and beverages that you consume on a daily basis that also have negative effects on your smile and you don’t even know it. Continue reading to learn more from your family dentist in Putnam about some unsuspecting cavity-causing foods and drinks that you should be weary of.
Raisins
Raisins provide many different nutritional benefits to people since they have all sorts of vitamins, healthy fiber, and minerals. However, they aren’t so good for your teeth. Raisins have a high sugar content. The bacteria in your mouth love eating away at sugar and ultimately, you will be more likely to experience tooth decay. The thing that makes raisins even worse is that they stick to the teeth and aren’t washed away so easily. This snack is definitely one to save for occasions.
Alcoholic Beverages
The main issue with alcohol is that it dries out your mouth. This is because it dehydrates your body and leads to a lower saliva production. Saliva is necessary for your mouth to stay healthy. It helps to neutralize harmful acids in the mouth and washes away food particles and bacteria. When your mouth is dryer than normal, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Ultimately, you are more likely to experience halitosis (bad breath) and tooth decay in the future. The best thing you can drink for your body is water.
Saltine Crackers
If you aren’t feeling too well, you may find yourself curled up on the couch with a blanket, your favorite bowl of soup, and some saltines. However, these crackers certainly aren’t doing much for your smile. Starchy snacks are almost as bad for your teeth as sugar is. They also stimulate bacterial growth and encourage the bacteria to eat away at your protective enamel. In the end, you will have additional cavities.
Cough Syrup
Even though you think of cough syrup as something that will help you feel better when you’re sick, it certainly isn’t doing good things for your smile. There is a lot of sugar in this product which fuels the growth of bacteria. Ingredients like citric acid can also wear down the protective enamel of your teeth, leaving them in danger of decay.
Next time you’re about to consume any of these foods and drinks, keep your teeth in mind. By being mindful and making good decisions, you will be able to maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Walter McGinn is a well experienced dentist who has been working at his practice in Putnam since 1994. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the prestigious Harvard School of Dental Medicine and is a member of the American Dental Association, Connecticut State Dental Association, and the Northeastern Connecticut Dental Society. For more information on maintaining a healthy smile or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (860) 928-3723.