10 Foods That Damage Your Teeth

Most people know candy and other sugary foods wreak havoc on their teeth, but how about fruit?
You’ve probably heard brushing and flossing
twice a day is the best way to keep your teeth
healthy. But some foods cause enough
damage to warrant extra cleanings.
1. Apples
Apples are high in acid, are surprisingly hard
on your enamel. While a daily apple may keep
the doctor away, the acid might keep your
dentist on speed dial. Eating apples is fine,
just be sure to rinse your mouth with water
or mouthwash shortly after.
2. Hard candies
Though you probably know the sugar in candy
is a problem, hard candies are especially
harmful because we tend to hold them in our
mouths longer. Also be aware that cough
drops are often made with sugar, so opt for
the sugar-free brand if available.
3. Pickled vegetables
Pickles are made with vinegar, which is
acidic, and often sugar as well. While the
vegetables are healthy, the brine is can
damage your teeth. Drinking water with your
meal helps wash away acids and sugar, but
remember to brush an hour later.
4. Bread
Many breads contain sugar—especially
processed white breads. It’s best to check the
labels for any added sweeteners that will
breed mouth bacteria. Bread is also sticky
and gets between and behind your teeth.
5. Popcorn
Popcorn is notorious for getting stuck in
your teeth, and the areas between your teeth
will cultivate more bacteria for that reason.
It’s okay to treat yourself to a bag of
popcorn as long as you rinse with water and
remember to floss and brush after.
6. Peanut butter
Sticky and often made with sugar, peanut
butter not only feeds bacteria but makes it
easier for them to adhere to teeth. Look for
natural peanut butters with no added sugars
to lessen the problem.
7. Jelly
Along with peanut butter, jelly or jam is
loaded with sugar and quite sticky. Even the
all-fruit brands contain natural sugars and
encourage plaque and bacteria if not washed
away soon.
8. Meat
Meat tends to get stuck between your teeth,
and some meat products contain sugar as a
preservative. While the amount may not be
very high, any food that sits between your
teeth can promote tooth decay. Try chewing
sugar-less gum after eating if you can’t brush
right away.
9. Diet soda
Just because it doesn’t have sugar doesn’t
mean your teeth are safe. The acidity of diet
sodas is still extremely high, making it one of
the worst products for your teeth.
10. Salad dressing
More of a condiment than a food, salad
dressings use vinegar and sugar for flavor.
Salads should be a staple in anyone’s diet,
but be careful of the dressings that can harm
your smile.