The 7 Deadly Sins Your Dentist Wants You To Stay Away From

As much as we love candy, we know that sweet stuff is bad for our teeth as it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. But when it comes to oral health, there are some foods and drinks that dentists consider more of a problem than what’s inside a trick-or-treat bucket.

Tooth health is an essential part of overall health and wellbeing. Good oral hygiene practices can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings are the best ways to maintain good tooth health.

In addition to these basic practices, there are other steps you can take to promote tooth health. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can all help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Eating a healthy and balanced diet can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

It's important to remember that good tooth health is not just about having a bright and white smile. Poor oral health can have serious health consequences, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. So, take care of those pearly whites and make sure to prioritize tooth health as a vital part of your overall health and wellbeing.

According to Delish and dentist Dr. Kristy Gretzula, “the absolute worst thing” for your teeth is soda and energy drinks. “The high acid breaks down your enamel and then the high sugar content increases cavities on that weakened enamel,” she explains. “Even diet sodas can do damage because they are still acidic.”

It can cause dental problems, like teeth breaking from accidentally biting on an unpopped kernel. The husks of corn can also get lodged between teeth and gums, which can cause inflammation and infection.

Known as a healthy drink, it’s also highly acidic, so it can strip enamel, the strong outer protective surface on your teeth. But don’t brush right after drinking kombucha because the acid softens the enamel and then the toothbrush wears away at it. Instead, wait an hour to brush your teeth.

These stay in your mouth longer, so the teeth are exposed to sugar longer.

Both red and white wine contain erosive acid that softens your enamel and leaves teeth vulnerable to decay. But red wine also contains tannins, which stain teeth and can dry your mouth out.

Drinks made with sugary mixers, like vodka and Red Bull and Jack and Coke, can coat your teeth’s surface.

Milk Duds can stick to teeth, taffy and caramels can pull off crowns, while hard candy and chewing ice can crack your teeth.