How Food Can Weaken Your Teeth if Not Cleaned Off Properly
Posted on 7/12/2021 by Elmwood Dental Group
Food choices affect our teeth. We know that sugary foods, and those high in carbohydrates, tend to accelerate tooth decay. Interestingly, any food can weaken your teeth if it is not thoroughly cleaned off the surface of your teeth.
Stages of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is damage to your teeth, which may result in cavities. The worst-case scenario is when tooth decay leads to dental infections and tooth loss. Tooth decay does not happen overnight, meaning that it takes time. However, if you choose not to brush your teeth in the evening, plaque can begin to build up overnight and start the process of tooth decay.
After you eat a meal, plaque covers the surface of your teeth. If you do not clean your teeth well, plaque begins to build up and harden overtime. Hardened plaque is called tartar. Bacteria are protected by tartar and are more difficult to remove once tartar has formed on the enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth. As the bacteria proliferate, the enamel begins to lose minerals and break down. Eventually, the weakened enamel leads to cavities, which are small holes in your teeth. Cavities require dental fillings.
While eating food was the first stage in this progression, it is possible to choose good foods to eat to avoid tooth decay altogether. Eat foods which are high in fiber, low in sugar and carbohydrates, and are full of nutrients and minerals to benefit your fit your entire body.
Call Our Office
If you suspect you have a cavity, it is important to make an appointment. Schedule your next professional cleaning and dental checkup with our friendly office staff. We look forward to working with you and helping you learn which foods will help make the best impact on your oral health!
Food choices affect our teeth. We know that sugary foods, and those high in carbohydrates, tend to accelerate tooth decay. Interestingly, any food can weaken your teeth if it is not thoroughly cleaned off the surface of your teeth.