Cavities are considered to be one of the most common health conditions that people face. It’s likely to affect a wide range of people at any point in their lives. Sugary foods and drinks are often the culprit, but there are sneaky types that aren’t too sweet that can lead to decay if you aren’t careful. Here are four items that you might not expect to lead to this dental problem.
1.) Citrus Fruits & Pickles
This group might seem odd, but it’s their qualities that are troublesome. Acidic foods, like lemons, oranges, pickles, and other pickled items, are very acidic. When their juices come into contact with your enamel, they can dissolve this top layer and weaken it. The bacteria in your mouth will be able to more easily erode it, leading to a cavity.
2.) Chips & Crackers
Chips and crackers are often the go-to snacks for many people. However, they are full of starches that can be an issue for your oral health. When you chew them, your saliva will turn these carbohydrates into sugar. This will then feed the plaque in your mouth to produce an acid that weakens your enamel.
3.) Pasta Sauces
Hearing that pasta can lead to decay can be worrying if it’s one of your favorite foods. However, it’s the sauce that can be an issue if you aren’t careful. This flavorful part is often made from ingredients like tomatoes, which are acidic. It may also be sugary, meaning it’s double the trouble! Simply rinse out your mouth after eating to help wash out lingering particles.
4.) Dried Fruits
Fruits are a staple for a healthy diet, and they can boost your smile in several ways. They promote saliva production to wash away harmful bacteria, and the vitamins in it can boost your immune system. That said, when they are dried, they become sticky and sugary. They can cling to your teeth more easily and be harder to clean off. This can increase your risk of decay over time.
Candy isn’t the only culprit for cavities! Keep in mind the four foods above and have them in moderation. Better yet, follow proper dental hygiene and have routine visits with your dentist; that way, you can either prevent decay or get it sorted out as soon as possible.
About the Practice
At TimberRidge Dental, our team is dedicated to helping the Heber City community get the stronger smiles they deserve. With preventive and restorative treatments, we can help you stop oral health issues before they happen or get fixed up with natural-looking, durable solutions. Led by compassionate dentists, you can trust that we get your grin as good as new. If you want help against cavities, schedule an appointment or call our office at (435) 654-2020.