Everyone loves to enjoy tasty foods, but it is vital to know which ones to avoid to protect your gums. Periodontal disease in its early stages, also known as gingivitis, attacks the gums resulting in them becoming inflamed. This occurs when bacteria from plaque gets in between the teeth and gums. Infection from the bacteria weakens the gums and separates them from the teeth. Gingivitis is one of the biggest dangers to dental health, making it important to stay away from foods that will trigger it.
Foods to Avoid
Soda: One of the most popular drinks we enjoy is amongst the worst for our gums and teeth. The sugar and different acids in soda breaks down the enamel and gums over time. Caffeine in sodas can also dry out the mouth. Dry mouth prevents the properties within saliva from working to correct any early indicators of gum disease.
White Bread: White bread and other foods made with white flour are not good for your gums. The starches in these foods when being consumed are broken down into sugar. During this process the starches turn into a paste, sticking to the gums and teeth. Bacteria feed on this paste, which can lead to tooth decay.
Popcorn: This is a tasty snack that our gums unfortunately do not like. Popcorn kernels sometimes have a habit of getting stuck in the teeth which can irritate the gums. This can cause an abscess to form. Abscess is an infection located in the gums that can induce tooth loss, gum disease, and other serious oral health issues.
Potato Chips: Another great tasting quick bite that many people love are potato chips. This is another snack that when eating forms into this gummy, pasty substance. It gets in the teeth and its acid properties can work to produce more bacteria that harm the gums. Starchy foods also tend to take away the natural moisture in the mouth. This prevents saliva from doing its job and allows the damage to continue to gums and teeth.
Citrus Fruits: These fruits are a healthy food to munch on. From oranges, limes, lemons to grapefruits, there are a variety of these fruits that taste great. They are jam packed with Vitamin C having multiple health benefits for those that consume them. While they are great for the healthy properties within them, they are extremely acidic. The natural acids and sugars within them combined together can be harmful to tooth enamel. The breakdown of the tooth enamel can eventually reach and harm the gums. If seeking to get Vitamin C from the foods you are eating, kiwi, honeydew melon, broccoli, peas, and asparagus are some great alternatives.
Some Other Foods to Avoid
Alcohol, sports drinks, and coffee are some other drinks that have some negative effects on the gums. Candies and other sweets have similar effects due to their high sugar and acid content. These two breeds bacteria that do not help the teeth.
If you have any questions about what other foods may not be good for the teeth or concerns about gum disease, reach out to us at Dental Made Easy. We are here to help!
Your Dental Health
When it comes to your health, trust in the dentists at Dental Made Easy. Dental Made Easy has the best dental practices in New York City and we are open on Sundays as well as late evenings. All of our dental offices are open and accepting new patients at this time. We are rated among the top dental practices in New York, NY with numerous 5-star reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. For a teeth cleaning or exam, we recommend calling or booking an appointment online with one of our talented dental professionals. All new patients may also take advantage of our $149 Cleaning Special that includes an exam and x-rays of our Free Dental Implant Consultation Special.
To set up your appointment give us a call at (844) 979-EASY (3279). We have offices in Kew Gardens, Flatbush and New Hyde Park. Walk-ins welcomed, we take emergencies and we are open on late nights to accommodate patients with a busy schedule. We hope to see you soon!
