5 Unexpected Things That Are Destroying Your Teeth
Start writing a post
Arts Entertainment

5 Unexpected Things That Are Destroying Your Teeth

Everyone knows that soda and candy are bad for our teeth, but there are some healthier foods that can also cause damage.

56
5 Unexpected Things That Are Destroying Your Teeth
pexels.com

The fact that soda and candy aren't good for our teeth isn't news to anyone. However, there are sugars and acids hiding in products that seem harmless and even healthy, which can really cause a lot of problems in our dental hygiene. So we talked to a leading cosmetic dentist from New York, Marianna M. Weiner, DDS, to give us a low down on five offenders that you would never expect to hurt your teeth

1. Juices

Although bottled juices come loaded with healthy nutrients, they also have very high sugar content. Some of these juices have a higher sugar content than soft drinks or smoothies. So drinking them is similar to dipping your teeth in chocolate, says Weiner. The bacteria in our mouth consumes this sugar and turns it into acid, which then breaks down our enamel - causing cavities.


The solution: The best and easiest solution to this problem is to simply sip juice through a staw. This will keep it away from covering the surfaces of your teeth. Also, it's important to wait at least 45 minutes after drinking a sugary beverage before you brush your teeth. Since the acid contained in juices softens our enamel, brushing right away can damage our teeth which are more vulnerable during that time.

2. Chewable vitamins

Many people love chewable vitamins, they taste like candy and are full of vitamins, what's not to love? The truth is, they aren't very healthy for your teeth. Since they are really sticky and sugary, they easily adhere to our teeth and remain there for longer periods of time, creating the perfect environment for cavities to appear.


The solution: We're not telling you to stop taking vitamins, simply take them in a pill form. Sure this might not be as tasty or fun, but a trip to the dentist for a tooth filling isn't fun either.

3. Barbecue sauce

One of the staples of summer is backyard barbecues. You know that sweet sauce you use to marinate your ribs and chicken with? Well, it also marinates your teeth in sugar. This may cause tooth discoloration and decay when left in your mouth long enough.


The solution: We know you can't wait to eat your barbecue, but before eating, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on your teeth to make a protective barrier between your enamel and the sauce. Hate having jelly on your teeth? No problem, just brush your teeth after the cookout to get rid of the residue.

4. Dried fruit

Majority of fresh fruits are regarded as beneficial for our teeth such as water-packed pears and apples. However, dried fruits are not! These nutritious snacks are packed with non-cellulose fiber which confines sugar to your teeth the way gummy candies do.


The solution: Immediately after consuming dried fruits, brush and floss your teeth to remove any stuck-on sugar.

5. White wine

Most of us are familiar with the bad reputation of red wine for staining teeth. But not many people know that white wine isn't much better. White wine has lots of acids that wear away your enamel, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to stains from other drinks and foods.


The solution: Next time you drink wine, eat some cheese with it. Cheese is rich in calcium, protein, and phosphorous, which help neutralize the acids wine leaves in your mouth. If you want an approach with fewer calories: Rinse your mouth with water after drinking wine to clean away some of the acidity.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

71561
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

133529
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments