You know that a healthy diet is important for your cardiovascular health and weight, but did you know that what you eat can affect your smile, too? We’re not just talking about sugar and soda, although these things can certainly damage your teeth. Acid, dark colored foods, and carbs in general all play an important role in your oral health. Fortunately, your La Jolla dentist can provide tips to improve your eating habits and protect your smile. If foods and drinks have already taken a toll on your teeth, contact your San Diego dentist today. Dr. Georgaklis offers numerous restorative and cosmetic treatments to reverse damage and improve your appearance.
Sugar and Your Smile
Your mom always told you that eating sugar would damage your teeth, and she was absolutely right. However, pure sugar is not the only culprit. Carbs in general will lead to decay if you do not exercise healthy habits. Just as carbs provide an immediate boost of energy to your body, they are also the main source of energy for oral bacteria. Microbes will feed off of the carbs, and the biochemical reaction will produce acid. Then the acid will wear into your dental enamel. Over time, this process will cause a cavity to develop.
Of course, you can’t really cut out carbs from your diet entirely. However, it is important to develop healthy habits that will minimize damage to your teeth. First, pure sugar is the most detrimental type of carbs. You should reduce your intake of candy, sweetened drinks, and other high-sugar items. Second, even when you eat less impactful carbs, be smart about it. Drink plenty of water with your meal, as this will wash away food particles and residual sugars. Wait about thirty minutes after eating and give food particles a chance to leave your mouth. Then thoroughly brush your teeth. Careful home hygiene, along with routine visits to your San Diego dentist, are two of the most important things you can do to save your smile.
San Diego Dentist Outlines the Surprising Effects of Acid
Since acid is harmful to your teeth, it may come as no surprise that acidic foods and drinks will damage your smile. As the acid erodes your dental enamel, it will not only increase your risk for decay. It will also expose the porous dentin underneath. This layer is much more sensitive than enamel. It is also naturally off-white, and it will become stained more quickly. To avoid decay and discoloration, you should reduce your consumption of citrus, white wine, fruit juices, and similar substances. Soda is one of the worst culprits. Not only is it high in sugar; even diet sodas are extremely acidic. It is best to avoid soda altogether, but if you have to have it, drink it with a straw. Naturally, brushing, flossing, and dental visits are also essential.
Eating for a White Smile
Along with watching your sugar and acid intake, you should be aware of the color of your food. Dark colored foods and drinks will stain your teeth over time as the pigmented molecules attach to your teeth. To maintain your sparkling grin, limit your intake of:
- Red wine
- Black tea
- Coffee
- Tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Curry
- Berries
- Cherries
- Pomegranates
- Colored candies, popsicles, and ices (even if they are sugar free)
Even with a careful diet, you will probably experience some discoloration. Fortunately, your San Diego dentist offers effective whitening treatment to reverse stains and enhance your grin.
Contact Your La Jolla Dentist for More Information
When you visit our practice, George Georgaklis, DDS can provide more information about maintaining your white smile. Contact us today to book an appointment.
