We’re all aware that sugary sweets and fizzy drinks cancause tooth decay. However, some of the foods we think ofas healthy can also cause dental issues and impact the appearance of teeth and gums…
“The foods you consume regularly can have a lasting impact on both the health and aesthetics of your smile,” says an expert for Doctors Implants, a dental practice specialising in restorative and implant dentistry.
“Taking steps to protect your teeth from common dietary pitfalls can help you preserve a vibrant and healthy smile for years to come.”
An array of foods and drinks, from tea and coffee to tomato sauces and fruits, can stain teeth and erode enamel.
However, there are simple ways of protecting your teeth.“We recommend maintaining regular dental check-ups and practising good oral hygiene to counteract the effects of these common foods,” says the expert.
“With mindful choices and proactive care, you can protect both natural teeth and implants, preserving your best smile. Remember that once enamel is gone, it cannot come back, so keeping your natural teeth strong for as long as possible will help you have a better quality of life.”
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To keep teeth pearly white for years to come, Dr Elnaz Gholbeigi, a dentist at Tooth Club, recommends flossing before brushing.
She explains, “Flossing first removes the plaque and food between your teeth, allowing the fluoride in your toothpaste to really do its job. If you skip flossing or do it after brushing, bacteria can get trapped between your teeth, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath.”
Here, dental experts at Doctors Implants unveil the five unexpected foods that could harm your teeth, and offer advice on protecting your smile…
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, lemons and grapefruits are full of vitamin C, but they also contain high levels of citric acid, which can erode enamel and harm implants.
“People assume fruits are always beneficial for your health, but the acidity in citrus can lead to enamel thinning over time,” says a specialist at Doctors Implants.
To reduce the impact, enjoy these fruits in moderation and rinse with water afterwards to neutralise the acid levels in your mouth.
Vinegar-Based Foods
Pickles, salad dressings and othervinegar-rich foods pack a punchin flavour – but they also containhigh levels of acid.“Vinegar is a hidden culprit ofenamel erosion,” an expert explains.
Consider having vinegary foods during a main meal rather than as a snack to reduce acidity exposure. Again, drinking water after consuming them can also help dilute the acids.
Coffee and tea
Similar to red wine, coffee, and tea contain tannins that can easily stain teeth, especially with repeated daily consumption.“Over time, staining can dull even the most carefully maintained smile,” the expert says. Limiting intake and regular brushing can reduce staining. According to the Mayo Clinic, having three to four cups of coffee a day is considered to be safe.
Berries
Berries are healthy and a good source of fibre, but some have dark pigments that can stain teeth over time. Culprits include blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.“Berries are fantastic for health, but they can alter the shade of your smile if they are not balanced with care,” an expert at Doctors Implants advises. For a radiant smile, they advise brushing your teeth after eating them. If you do notice any discolouration, you could opt for a professional whitening treatment.
Tomato-based sauces
Tomatoes are acidic by nature, and sauces like salsa and passata can weardown enamel and stain teeth over time. Lots of dishes include tomatoes, soit’s important to watch how much you consume.“When acidic sauces linger in the mouth, they have a double impact – causingerosion and discolouration,” warns an expert. They recommend pairing tomato-basedsauces with foods high in calcium, like cheese, which can help neutralise acidity.
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