We all know that certain habits can have a negative effect on our teeth and gums; some, like smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee, are obvious culprits of stubborn stains that darken your enamel. There are many foods and drinks, however, that we don’t actively avoid because we don’t fully understand how they impact our oral health. At the family-friendly dental practice of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen in Norman, OK, we offer our patients easy, helpful tips for maintaining radiant, healthy smiles for a lifetime.

Avoid These Common Foods & Beverages for Healthier Teeth

Starchy Foods – Foods like breads, pastas, chips, and crackers contain high levels of starch that begins to convert to sugar rapidly inside your mouth. In addition, these small particles easily become lodged between teeth and in the small crevices in your molars. To mitigate this, try enjoying these types of foods as part of a whole meal. Other components of your breakfast, lunch, or dinner will help prevent problems from arising.

Sports Drinks & Energy Drinks – These popular thirst-quenching options often contain sugar, citric acid, and/or carbonated water, all three of which are known to cause unnecessary enamel wear. If you absolutely must have one, don’t brush your teeth immediately after; opt for a nice glass of water first instead. Brushing too soon after drinking anything that contains citric acid (including lemons, oranges, limes, and some sodas) can actually prove more damaging than the beverage itself.

Sticky foods – Dense, sticky fruits and candies – think dates, raisins, caramels, and taffy – linger on and between teeth long after you’ve eaten them. Indulge in these types of treats sparingly and, when you do, be sure to clean your teeth and gums well afterward.

Alcohol – Excessive alcohol consumption causes dehydration throughout the body and, of course, this includes your mouth. Without proper hydration, the mouth fails to produce a sufficient amount of saliva, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to decay and your gums more susceptible to periodontal disease. While the occasional cocktail, beer, or glass of wine won’t necessarily cause your mouth any lasting harm, it’s important to remember to drink plenty of water between drinks to maintain proper hydration and pH levels.

Protect Your Smile!

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental checkup, contact us at our Norman, OK office today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Carmen’s comprehensive exams and cleanings are the building blocks of a healthy, beautiful smile. We also serve patients from the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, Moore, and beyond.