Thursday, August 1, 2013

Other Foods to Avoid According to Your Fountain Valley Dentist


In the last blog, your Fountain Valley Dentist Peter Hagen from Hagen Dental told you about the dangers of sugary foods. Dr. Hagen also mentioned that there were plenty of other foods that could cause damage to your teeth and gums, but it is not just sugary foods that can wreck havoc with your smile. Other foods that you may not know about could also turn your frown upside down.

According to Readers Digest foods like ketchup and even fruit flavored yogurt are loaded with hidden sugars. If you ever see high fructose corn syrup on an ingredients list do yourself and your family a favor and put it back on the shelf.

Sports and energy drinks may put a zing in your step, but the thick and acidic liquids can stick to your teeth for hours. Energy and sports drinks are just as bad as soda. For a healthier grin, stick to plain old water.  

If you enjoy sucking on a ripe juicy lemon, your OC Dentist says that you could be ruining the enamel on your teeth. Because lemons are so acidic, sucking or chewing on them for long period of time could cause irreversible damage to your teeth.

Starchy foods like soft breads, potato chips, French fries, crackers and pretzels are not just bad for your waistline. Your Fountain Valley Dentist will tell you that starchy foods will get trapped in-between your teeth and if you are not constantly brushing, could lead to plaque build-up.

Dried fruit and raisins are extremely high in sugar, but according to your Dentist in Orange County, raisins and other dried fruits like apricots and prunes can be stuck in your teeth and stay for hours leading to decay. Dried fruits can also cause stress on fillings.

For healthy teeth and gums, your favorite Fountain Valley Dentist recommends eating sugary foods with a meal. Because your mouth produces saliva during mealtime, it can help neutralize the acid production in your mouth rising away food particles.

Dr. Hagen also advises that you limit your snacks. If you must have something to eat, opt for a nutritious snack like a piece of cheese or a handful of nuts. Try to rinse your mouth out after your snack, or chew a stick of sugarless gum.

Drink more water as fluoridated water can help with tooth decay. If you are drinking bottled water, be sure and check your labels for fluoride.


Finally your OC Dentist recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy and don’t forget to schedule an appointment for a check-up with Hagen Dental if you haven’t seen your Dentist in Orange County for a few months.