Diet is a major factor in preventing dental decay (caries) and enamel erosion.
Sugar containing food and drink can cause cavities. Acidic food and drink (such as diet drinks) can dissolve your teeth making them sensitive and can cause permanent damage.
Most sugars and acid in the diet are in foods and drinks, such as:
- Chocolates, cakes, biscuits, buns, fruit pies, pastries, puddings, fruit yoghurt and ice cream.
- Sugared breakfast cereals
- Fresh fruit juice and smoothies
- Any fizzy drinks
- Sugared milk drinks, milkshakes, cocoa
- Dried fruits e.g. raisins, apricots
- Syrups and sauces
As always, the key thing to remember is to have ‘everything in moderation’. It is important to be aware of what we are eating and drinking during the day. The frequency. Try to reduce the number of acidic or sugar attacks and you can reduce the chance of your teeth being damaged. Try and eat acidic or sugar containing foods as part of a meal.
Top Tips
- Do not snack in between meals.
- If you have to snack the best foods are savoury such as raw carrots, cucumber, celery and peppers, cheese, oatcakes, bread sticks, rice cakes, crumpets and pitta bread.
- Drink plain tap water in between meals.
- Do not eat sugary foods within an hour of bedtime.
- Chewing sugar-free gum after eating may help to increase the salivary flow which helps the teeth to repair themselves.
- Use mouthwash after meals.
If you wish to speak to one of our dentists please call us on 01438351 and we can book you an appointment.
Further information can be found here.