By Most people believe they know what harms their teeth, namely things like drinking sugary sodas, eating candy, and skipping brushing. However, there are a lot more reasons that lead to dental emergencies.
According to the U.S. News & World Report, between 2020 and 2022, dental-related issues led to an average of 1,944,000 emergency visits per year. It accounts for roughly 59.4 visits per 10,000 persons. The age group of 25 to 34 years old had the highest rate of emergency visits, accounting for 29.2 percent of all visits.
At an emergency dental center, dentists frequently encounter patients who are surprised by how daily habits can lead to unexpected problems. The best news is that if you are aware of these hidden risks, you may make the healthiest choices and still maintain a balanced diet.
This article explains how eating habits develop an acidic environment in the mouth, which can lead to tooth erosion.
Eating Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like chips, bread, and pasta might seem innocent enough, but they can actually wreak havoc on your teeth more than you might think. Healthline notes that after you indulge in a sugary snack, the sugars can trigger bacteria to produce acids that start to wear down your tooth enamel. If that enamel gets damaged, cavities can form.
These cavities can lead to complications, including pain, difficulty eating, and even Rotten Teeth. The danger increases when you consume starchy foods regularly or let them linger in your mouth for too long.
Dentists often point out that these foods can act just like candy when it comes to causing decay. To lower the chances of this happening, try to enjoy starchy meals with water or fresh veggies. It can help neutralize acids and rinse away any leftover bits.
Consuming Sugar-Free Sodas
Sugar-free sodas might seem like a clever alternative to regular sodas, but they can still pose risks to your dental health in surprising ways. Many of these drinks contain acids like phosphoric and citric acid, which can wear down tooth enamel over time, even without sugar.
One downside of sugar-free sodas is that constantly sipping on them keeps your mouth in an acidic environment. It doesn’t give saliva enough time to neutralize the acids and protect your teeth.
Brushing your teeth right after drinking these sodas can actually harm your enamel even more. Rinse your mouth with water and wait at least an hour before brushing. Opting for plain water more often and being mindful of your soda intake can really help prevent enamel erosion and other dental problems.
Sucking on Sugary Cough Drops
While sucking on sugary cough drops might feel like a simple way to soothe a sore throat, it actually comes with some sneaky dental dangers. According to a study published in the Wiley Online Library, cough drops and other slow-dissolving medications remain in the mouth for several hours.
Prolonged exposure means that “tooth-friendly” ingredients, like mannitol and sorbitol, with low fermentation rates, have much more time to ferment. It leads to the production of more acids. Since saliva production decreases at night, using these drops before bed can be particularly risky, as the sugar sticks around on your teeth for even longer.
It may surprise you that cough drops can have the same amount of sugar as candy. To help minimize any dental issues, opt for sugar-free varieties and rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after using them. Remember, good oral hygiene and moderation are essential for protecting your teeth during the cold season.
Snacking and Sipping Frequently
Snacking and sipping throughout the day can be a significant threat to your dental health. Every time you eat or drink, bacteria in your mouth feast on the sugars and starches, creating acids that can harm your tooth enamel.
According to Aegis Dental Group, unexpected dental problems might cause agony and anxiety. Furthermore, abrupt and intense tooth pain may be a sign of a serious dental problem that requires prompt care.
Frequent exposure to acids can keep your mouth in an acidic state for extended periods. It can weaken enamel and heighten the risk of gum disease. To protect your teeth, opt for tooth-friendly snacks like raw vegetables or nuts and drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles. Regular dental checkups and maintaining proper oral hygiene are also essential.
Chewing on Hard Foods
Biting into tough foods can really take a toll on your dental health, even if your teeth can endure. Enamel can still chip or break when you bite into tough items such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.
Although chewing on ice can seem harmless, it might result in long-term harm, according to the University of Utah. Even the most resilient component of your body, the enamel, can get damaged. Biting down on ice can create tiny cracks in the enamel that may grow into larger fractures over time, potentially leading to a broken tooth.
Over time, what begins as little, undetectable fissures may worsen and develop into excruciating dental crises that require quick care. Enjoying these foods occasionally and with caution can help you avoid any surprise cracks or breaks.
⚖️ Disclaimer
This article on HealthsConscious.com is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified dentist or healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your dental health or before making changes to your oral care routine.
FAQs
What is the #1 cavity-causing food?
When it comes to causing cavities, sugary candy takes the crown, especially the sticky or sour kinds. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which then creates acids that can damage your tooth enamel. The longer sugar hangs around on your teeth, the more likely you are to get cavities. To keep your smile healthy, it’s wise to limit how much candy you eat and to brush your teeth afterward.
Do almonds damage your teeth?
Almonds are generally safe for your teeth and can even boost your dental health. Packed with calcium and protein, they help strengthen your enamel. Plus, their crunchy texture encourages saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and acids that can lead to decay. However, be cautious with very hard almonds, as they could potentially crack your teeth, so enjoy them with care.
Can teeth recover from chewing ice?
Teeth may not recover from the damage that comes from chewing ice. Once the enamel is cracked or worn down, it doesn’t grow back. Continued ice chewing can lead to tooth problems, including chipping, cracks, and sensitivity, which necessitate crowns or other dental procedures. It’s advisable to eliminate this behavior to maintain the condition of your teeth and prevent expensive solutions.
Taking care of your teeth goes beyond just brushing and flossing. It’s also about being mindful of some surprising eating habits that could harm your dental health. The best way to keep your teeth in top shape is to pair good dental hygiene with a balanced diet.
Remember, it’s much easier and cheaper to prevent dental issues than to fix them later on. With the right approach, your smile can shine brightly for years ahead. All this is possible by choosing foods carefully and maintaining a regular dental hygiene regimen.
