There are lots of things we can do that help maintain good oral health. But did you know that the food you eat also has a big impact on your teeth?

We all know that sugary foods like lollies are a major cause of dental decay. But that doesn’t mean they have to be cut out of your diet altogether. Moderation is the key, and combined regular brushing, flossing and scheduled six monthly dental checks. The occasional snack is unlikely to cause major issues.

There are certain things we need to be mindful of.

Fruits

Citrus fruits although a rich source of vitamin and nutrients—are good for you in many ways, but not when it comes to your teeth. They are highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time.

Lollies and Sweets

Foods that take a long time to chew or that you hold in your mouth (such as sticky lollies) can damage teeth as they retain sugar in the mouth longer than other foods.

The more sugary the food the more damage it can cause. Bacteria feeds off this sugar to make acid. This dissolves the protective layer of tooth enamel and is the cause of tooth decay.

Hard Lollies have the added risk that they can chip your teeth.

Soft Drinks

It’s no secret that drinking sugary soft drinks can cause tooth decay. What’s less well known is that the acids found in these drinks can harm teeth even more than the sugar. So even sugar-free soft drinks like Diet Coke are bad for your teeth because they erode your tooth enamel if consumed in large doses.

Sports Drinks

Unfortunately sports drinks won’t do your teeth any favours either. They are highly acidic too, and are potentially even more damaging to teeth. Leaving your teeth sensitive, weaker and more prone to decay.

Remember that timing is everything

A diet that promotes good oral health is not just about the foods you eat or avoid. When and how you eat is equally important. Set meals rather than snacking all day is far better for you. It means less time that food is in contact with your teeth and less opportunity for the bacteria that causes decay to damage them.