Our expert team at Keshavarz Dentistry in Brampton is dedicated to treating various dental health problems, such as tooth loss, gum disease, and cavities. We also take considerable pride in practicing preventive dentistry, allowing us to detect oral hygiene issues before they become serious.
The Case for Preventive Dentistry
Dental care and disease prevention are among our most important offerings. That’s precisely why we’ve compiled a list of eight standard products that can potentially destroy teeth and what you can do about each.
Popcorn:
This is a favourite treat for movie night, whether you’re watching at home or at the theatre. People also like this popular snack at festivals and sporting stadiums. Unfortunately, that tasty treat is at the top of our list of products that can harm your molars.
● One of the big reasons is you can crack a tooth on a hard kernel that hasn’t been popped.
● Popcorn is coated in other sugary treats, such as caramel and butter. Unfortunately, these coatings can stick to teeth and, eventually, cause cavities.
● Even popcorn husks can get caught between your teeth, which can cause inflammation and gum disease if you don’t floss.
The good news is that you don’t have to give up this food when you follow some of our proactive advice. For instance, popcorn can become a tooth-friendly snack if you avoid some caramel-coated or sugary varieties. The next time you’re out craving this food, order some plain air-popped kernels, which are better for your oral health.
Caffeinated Beverages:
You might be waking up and getting ready to face the day or need a little boost while studying. Caffeinated beverages are popular for those two scenarios and others.
On the downside, these beverages can cause dry mouth, eventually destroying your teeth because they reduce saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away bacteria before they harden into tartar and form cavities.
Sugar-free gum can be an excellent way to protect your enamel after a coffee. This gum neutralizes the acids that cause dry mouth.
Chewing Ice:
Chewing ice might be an excellent way to cool off on a muggy day, but it’s terrible practice for oral health. Biting down on ice can break, chip or even fracture a tooth. Sipping a nice glass of icy water on a balmy day is much better. Using fluoride mouthwash and toothpaste can also help protect your enamel.
Homemade Teeth Whiteners:
Avoiding the cost of professional teeth whitening treatments can result in trouble with your molars. Standard homemade versions contain abrasive problem ingredients like activated charcoal and baking soda, which can lead to worn-down enamel and increased tooth sensitivity. Consult your dentist first if you want this treatment done, as it can help you avoid issues.
Lemons and Limes:
Lemons and limes are great ways to enhance the flavour of cocktails and sparkling water, but they’re not always a good choice for dental health. Both foods have a high amount of citric acid, which can expose the dentin underneath the enamel and discolour teeth over time.
Eating lemons and limes and putting them in drinks is fine, but rinsing with fluoride mouthwash afterward can help counteract the acid left in your mouth.
Carbonated Beverages:
Soft drinks are standard with restaurant meals and fast food, but their carbonation can weaken enamel when they contain excessive sugar. For those reasons, you must also be careful of popular energy drinks when cooling off.
Many of these drinks have enough sugar to feed bacteria, which can cause cavities to develop. As such, we recommend drinking these beverages through a straw, which reduces direct exposure to your teeth.
Starchy Carbohydrates:
Several popular foods have starches that can erode enamel. Maybe you’re an athlete who eats starchy carbs, like oatmeal, before a workout. Even someone enjoying a home-cooked meal with potatoes, pasta, and bread should know that these foods feed harmful bacteria.
Rinsing with water after eating foods containing starchy carbohydrates can help reduce the acid and bacteria in your mouth.
Alcohol:
People like to have a glass of their favorite Spirit when dining out or at Social gatherings. They even enjoy a drink or two at home to unwind after work and enjoy an evening with friends. However, it’s essential to be aware that alcohol, especially mixed drinks and wine, contains ingredients that can weaken the enamel on your teeth.
Regular flossing and brushing before bed after having a few of these beverages can remove bacteria, acids, and sugars and prevent cavities.
Looking for Proactive Dental Solutions?
Keshavarz Dentistry is proud that over 80% of our patients are referrals. Our patient-centric approach includes free parking, flexible appointment times, and discounts for seniors. If you’re looking for an innovative, compassionate dental office in Brampton, call (905) 791-3867 or book a dental appointment online today. You’ll be glad you did!
