Which Substances Cause the Most Damage to Teeth?
10 Dental Myths and Facts to Sink Your Teeth Into
You’ve heard them all before: candy will make your teeth rot, crunchy foods help scrape away plaque and chewing gum is bad for your whole mouth. Are these toothy tales really true? The dentists of TCD in Madison debunk these common myths, brushing aside fiction from facts.
1. Sugar causes teeth to decay.
MYTH: Sugar is not the main cause of tooth decay. Acids from natural bacteria are the main source of tooth decay. Other carbohydrates such as some fruits, grains, and vegetables can form plaque, but these foods contain other benefits for your overall health. Sugar in moderation combined with regular brushing should not cause severe oral hygiene problems.
2. Exposure to cold temperatures, such as chewing ice cubes, will crack your teeth.
MYTH: Small temperature changes will not crack your teeth. Adult teeth do have small cracks here and there due to aging. Our restorative dentistry will help keep your teeth strong even after breaking.
3. Coffee and soda stain your teeth.
FACT: Each tooth contains tiny pits, which hold food and drink particles, causing stains. To combat staining, rinse your mouth with water after every meal and use a whitening toothpaste. A professional teeth whitening treatment from Total Care dentists is one way to reverse these stains.
4. Chewing gum is bad for your teeth.
MYTH: It depends on the gum. Sugar-free is best. Chewing also produces 10x more saliva, which washes away food particles. Look for gum with xylitol, an ingredient that makes bacteria less sticky, slowing the cavity-producing process.
5. Water helps wash away sugar and acid.
FACT: Similar to our own saliva, water contains fluoride, a mineral found in toothpaste and some mouthwashes. Fluoride protects against tooth erosion, meaning drinking water after or while eating will help keep your teeth clean.
6. Dairy products strengthen tooth enamel.
FACT: Rich in calcium, dairy products help strengthen tooth enamel, as well as our bones. Casein, a type of protein in cheese, also preserves and repairs enamel.
7. Candy is the absolute worst for your teeth.
MYTH: Yes, candy is bad for your teeth; however, snack foods, like chips and crackers, are far worse. High in sugar, they stick to your teeth, making it harder for saliva and water to wash them away. Eat in moderation to prevent damage to your teeth.
8. Crispy fruits and veggies help scrub your teeth.
FACT: Crispy and crunchy healthy foods, like carrots and apples, freshen your breath and clean plaque from your teeth. They're also great for your overall health.
9. Smokeless tobacco won’t have the same effect as cigarettes or cigars.
MYTH: Smokeless tobacco, or chewing tobacco, is still tobacco. Your entire mouth will suffer from these side effects: discoloration of teeth, higher risk of cavities, oral cancer, gum disease, erosion, decay, etc. Bottom line: DON’T use tobacco.
10. Berries stain your teeth.
FACT: Even though berries are full of nourishing antioxidants, they also contain chromogens, which are active stain-causing agents. Whatever can stain your clothes will most likely stain your teeth.
Preventative action is the best solution for keeping your pearly whites sparkling. Knowing which foods and substances to avoid is just the first step in keeping your mouth healthy. Total Care Dental offers affordable remedies for turning back the clock on your teeth. Our smile-restoration technology, paired with friendly service, makes for a relaxing and positive dental experience.
Make oral care a priority, and contact TCD for professional dental services.
