Gum disease is surprisingly common - in fact, the Canadian Dental Association writes that 7/10 Canadians will develop gum disease during their lifetime. But this health problem can be prevented with a healthy diet and regular brushing and flossing. Abstain from foods that will compromise the quality of your gums, like the ones listed below:
Soda. You probably already knew that sweet sodas were bad for your teeth - but did you know that even the sugar-free ones cause damage? That’s because they contain phosphoric and citric acids which will dissolve tooth enamel and impede the health of your gums. Carbonated beverages should be avoided if you want to stave off gum disease and tooth erosion.
Tomatoes. How can something that’s healthy be bad for your mouth? Unfortunately, tomatoes are very acidic, which can weaken the structure of your teeth. Stay away from this fruit to preserve your enamel and protect your gums.
Candy. Sugary sweets are bad for your teeth; maybe that’s why they are so delicious? Regardless, to maintain healthy gums, refrain from eating candy whenever you can. Hard candies that remain in your mouth bathe your gums in sugar. Other chewy sweets can cause your teeth to chip. They contain refined sugars that are difficult to brush away, which can promote bacterial growth and lead to gingivitis.
Dried fruits. Fruits can be nutritious, but when they are dehydrated, their high sugar content and sticky texture is a recipe for poor oral health. Sugar is converted to acid by the plaque on your teeth, which leads to even more damage. In general, stay away from sticky foods like dried fruit to keep your teeth strong and your gums healthy.
White bread. This sliced delight is very high in refined carbohydrates, which your saliva breaks down into sugar - the same goes for pasta and potato chips. The chewy texture of starchy foods can cause pieces to become wedged between your teeth, resulting in irritation to your gums.
Sports drinks. These beverages are packed with sugar and acids that will wreak havoc in your mouth. The combination of these two leads to weakened tooth enamel, leaving your gums vulnerable to bacteria. Switch out your sports drinks for plain water to keep your mouth healthy.
Citrus. Oranges, lemons, and limes contain high volumes of acid, which is known to erode tooth enamel and lead to gum disease. If you consume these foods regularly, don’t brush right away - the acid makes your teeth susceptible to abrasion. Instead, rinse your teeth with water or mouthwash to remove the acid.
Popcorn. Ever eaten popcorn and had part of a kernel become wedged between your teeth? Chances are, you had some difficulty removing it. This can promote bacterial growth and even cause a gum abscess. Reconsider your favourite cinema snack to save the health of your teeth and gums.
The best way to keep your gums healthy is to schedule regular dental visits. Are you looking for a Winnipeg dental clinic? East Kildonan Dental Group has experienced dentists that can help with general cleanings and cosmetic dentistry. Call us today so we can assess the health of your gums.