Most people have been told that eating sugary snacks and treats—such as cookies, cakes, and candies—too frequently can cause cavities. Although you may regularly practice preventive dental care like brushing and flossing, you can also try moderating or avoiding these meals altogether. But are there other snacks you might not expect to damage your pearly whites? Keep reading from your dentist in Frisco about three other foods that can increase your risk of cavities.
#1: Saltine Crackers
If you’ve ever had a stomachache, then you were probably told to munch on saltine crackers (along with a warm bowl of soup) to help you recover. While they can feed your appetite, eating them too often can be detrimental when preventing cavities. This is due to them containing processed carbohydrates and starches, which can allow bacteria to grow and feed on your enamel. Saltine crackers also break down into tiny bits, covering every surface of your mouth and making it more difficult to brush off.
#2: Raisins
These dried grapes hold numerous nutritional benefits for your body—including essential vitamins and minerals as well as boosts in your digestion and iron levels. However, they are surprisingly high in sugar, similar to sodas and candy bars! This provides the perfect food source for the natural bacteria in your mouth to grow. On top of that, raisins are sticky and increase the risk of covering your teeth for too long. Without properly brushing it away, they can allow for cavities to form.
#3: Alcoholic Beverages
Although many of these drinks are tasty and enjoyable, they also take a major toll on your dental health. Not only do they contain starches that damage your enamel, but the alcohol primarily dries out your mouth. This prevents sufficient saliva flow, which is essential for naturally washing away bacteria. Drinking alcoholic beverages frequently will dehydrate your body, slowing down saliva production and allowing the germs in your mouth to grow exponentially. This can eventually lead to cavities developing in your smile.
Understanding the various cavity-causing foods to avoid is a good step in protecting your dental well-being. Be sure to also rinse your mouth, clean your teeth every day, and visit your dentist routinely to ensure your smile is clean and healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Deval Parmar has always been passionate about blending art with science, which fueled her desire to pursue dentistry. She studied both in India and the US, earning her dental degree from the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, and has delivered excellent care for over 13 years. She provides a wide range of comprehensive treatments, including dental checkups and cleanings to help you maintain good dental health. If you wish to know more about which foods cause cavities or want to schedule a checkup, visit her website or call her at 972-972-4646.