It’s one of the most oft-asked questions at our Rochester dentist: “What are the best and worst foods for your teeth?” Circle Drive Dental has been around for a while, and we have a pretty good handle on this - so let’s dive right in.

These teas have chemicals called polyphenols, which are exceptional bacteria inhibitors. When these two substances interact, the polyphenols will at the very least restrain the bacteria, if not outright kill it. Either way, you win, because existing bacteria is prevented from growing, as well as producing more of the harmful acid that hurts teeth. A “hidden” benefit of green/black tea, and one that depends on the water you use to brew your beverage, is that tea can also be a good source of fluoride.

Whether your regional dialect embraces “soda” or “pop” as proper vernacular, both are bad news for healthy teeth. Amongst kids, tweens, and teens, soft drinks are the #1 source of added sugar to one’s daily diet. Moreover, soda pop contains citric and phosphoric acids that will also do a number on tooth enamel.

We’ve mentioned fluoride a few times already, and its importance to a healthy mouth can’t be understated. In this case, our general dentist advocates consuming foods/drinks that are made with fluoridated water (i.e. low-sugar powdered juices and dehydrated soups), as well as prepared foods that already contain fluoride. This group includes poultry and seafood.

The biggest offenders here are alcohol and many different kinds of medicine. If you have a prescription, talk with our local dentist about ways to keep your mouth moist – for example, fluoride gel or rinse that you can use in conjunction with brushing your teeth.

Fiber, a key component in many fruits and veggies, is a key contributor to clean gums and teeth. Fiber keeps your saliva flowing, which in turn mitigates the negative effect caused by sugar and starch-based enzymes and acids. Plus, saliva contains calcium and phosphates – not in significant quantity, but enough to help restore minerals to teeth affected by bacteria and acid.  

In this category, the main culprits are caramels, lollipops, taffy, and the like. These sweets are high in refined sugar, and their inherent stickiness ensures that sugar remains in your mouth, between your teeth, and in your gums for far longer than it should. If you have a sweet tooth, all is not lost though: chocolate, according to the American Dental Association, washes off the teeth faster than most of its sweet counterparts, and dark chocolate in particular has proven health benefits.

Cheese, yogurt, and milk all possess calcium, which assists in rebuilding tooth enamel while simultaneously replacing any missing minerals lost in certain teeth. Also, cheese is an effective saliva generator.

Regardless of your diet, scheduling regular dental cleanings are key to maintaining healthy teeth. From teeth whitening to dental fillings and Invisalign, Circle Drive Dental is the preferred dentist for Rochester residents young and old. Make an appointment today and expect a lifetime of expert oral care.