Which Foods Are Bad for My Teeth?

Feb 26

Maintaining good oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing—it’s also about making smart dietary choices. Some foods can contribute to tooth decay, enamel erosion, and gum disease. Below, we highlight the worst foods for your teeth. While avoiding these foods entirely isn’t necessary, moderation and proper oral hygiene can mitigate their harmful effects. Drinking plenty of water, brushing twice daily, and visiting your dentist regularly can help maintain a healthy smile.

1. Sugary Sweets and Candies

Sugar is one of the leading causes of tooth decay. Sticky sweets, such as toffees, gummy bears, and lollipops, cling to teeth, providing a feast for harmful bacteria.

2. Fizzy Drinks

Carbonated soft drinks, including diet versions, are highly acidic and can weaken tooth enamel over time. The high sugar content also feeds bacteria that produce harmful acids.

3. Citrus Fruits

Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are packed with vitamin C but are also very acidic. Frequent consumption can erode enamel, making teeth more sensitive.

4. Dried Fruits

While dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and figs may seem like a healthy snack, they are sticky and high in sugar, increasing the risk of cavities.

5. Starchy Foods

Crisps, white bread, pasta, and refined carbs break down into sugars that bacteria in the mouth use to create acids that erode enamel.

6. Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks dry out the mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva is crucial for washing away food particles and neutralising acids in the mouth.

7. Coffee and Tea

While tea and coffee can have health benefits, they can also stain teeth over time. Additionally, adding sugar increases the risk of cavities.

8. Ice

Chewing ice can cause microfractures in the enamel, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of breakage.

9. Sports and Energy Drinks

Many sports and energy drinks contain high levels of sugar and acids that contribute to enamel erosion and decay.

10. Pickles and Vinegar-Based Foods

Pickles contain vinegar, which is acidic and can weaken enamel over time.

Get expert advice

If you're concerned about tooth decay then Hampton Dental Care is your go-to private dental practice. Our mission is to provide the highest quality dental treatment, using the most advanced technology and materials available, at fair prices.