WHAT ARE GOOD AND BAD FOODS FOR THE TEETH?
Although foods such as milk, fruits and vegetables contribute to strong bones and healthy teeth and gums, even they can foster tooth decay in the absence of good oral hygiene. Particles of food that are trapped on tooth surfaces are considered to contribute to cavity development. Because of their texture, some foods are retained in the mouth longer than others are. However, foods that are perceived by consumers to be “sticky” are not always those that are retained longest in the mouth.
A. Although foods such as milk, fruits and vegetables contribute to strong bones and healthy teeth and gums, even they can foster tooth decay in the absence of good oral hygiene. Particles of food that are trapped on tooth surfaces are considered to contribute to cavity development. Because of their texture, some foods are retained in the mouth longer than others are. However, foods that are perceived by consumers to be “sticky” are not always those that are retained longest in the mouth. Research continues in this area. Table sugar (sucrose) was once considered the sole dietary culprit in cavity formation. Recent research, however, indicates that cooked starches also play a role. When complex carbohydrate foods such as bread, corn flakes, pasta, crackers, and potato chips are allowed to remain in the mouth for several hours, the bacteria that live in the mouth break down these starches into sugars.
Although foods such as milk, fruits and vegetables contribute to strong bones and healthy teeth and gums, even they can foster tooth decay in the absence of good oral hygiene. Particles of food that are trapped on tooth surfaces are considered to contribute to cavity development. Because of their texture, some foods are retained in the mouth longer than others are. However, foods that are perceived by consumers to be “sticky” are not always those that are retained longest in the mouth. Research continues in this area. Table sugar (sucrose) was once considered the sole dietary culprit in cavity formation. Recent research, however, indicates that all starches also play a role. When complex carbohydrate foods such as bread, corn flakes, pasta, crackers, and potato chips are allowed to remain in the mouth for several hours, the bacteria that live in the mouth break down these starches into sugars. This process produces acids that attack teeth and a cavity will result if the mouth is not cl
All foods can cause cavities in the absence of good oral hygiene. Table sugar (sucrose) was once considered the only dietary source of cavities, but recent research shows that cooked starches such as bread, corn flakes, pasta, crackers and potato chips are allowed to remain in the mouth for several hours, bacteria produce acids that attack teeth and cause cavities. Even foods such as milk, fruits and vegetables, which contribute to strong bones and health teeth and gums, can foster tooth decay when left on the teeth for periods of time without brushing. It’s best to reserve sugars and cooked starches for mealtime when saliva production is increased and when naturally rinsing foods and beverages are being consumed. Back to top.
