Protect your smile by eating healthy. You could be putting your teeth at an increased risk of damage based on what you consume. Many foods can increase the rate at which tooth decay can occur, while some can cause oral accidents or injuries to occur, and others can be so acidic that they erode right through tooth enamel. For a detailed look of foods and habits to avoid, see the following:

– Avoid or limit sticky and gummy sweets, as they habitually linger in your mouth long after consumption, vastly increasing your risk for plaque buildup and tooth decay to occur.
– Some foods and drinks that have high acidity should be cut out of your diet, such as citrus fruits and fruit drinks, but if you must consume them, do so as part of a larger meal to help neutralize their acids.
– Avoid sour candy, as it is extremely acidic, with some brands having an acidity that is nearly the same as car battery acid.
– Avoid hard foods and candy, such as giant candy canes, lollipops, popcorn kernels, and popcorn balls, as they often chip and crack teeth or easily become lodged between teeth.
– Limit or avoid foods and drinks with lots of sugar and carbs, which can be converted in your mouth into harmful acids capable of chewing through tooth enamel.

Dr. Danlu Lee & Wendy Yeung and our team at Radiant Smiles Family Dentistry will make sure that your smile is properly treated. To schedule an oral exam or professional cleaning at our dentist office in Kirkland, Washington, please contact us at (425) 828.9721. A healthy smile is a happy smile!