July 31, 2023

Eat Differently, For The Sake Of Your Teeth

It’s no secret that what you eat and drink can affect your oral health ― think about enamel-eroding sugars and stain-inducing coffee drinks. But by focusing all of our attention on what we eat, we forget that how we eat and drink plays just as pivotal a role.

Foods To Eat Differently, And How

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, like lemons, oranges and grapefruits, are acidic and can erode tooth enamel. To minimize the effects, turbo-chew and swallow so the fruit doesn’t have time to loiter on your teeth. Pezzullo also recommended rinsing your mouth with water to help neutralize the acidity. And if spa water’s more your speed, drink it with a straw to limit direct contact with the acidity.

Apples

Biting into apples with force can cause stress on the teeth and potentially lead to enamel damage or tooth sensitivity. “By cutting an apple into wedges, you can push the fruit directly to the back teeth, which are specifically designed to grind, crush, and tear food,” said Dr. Lauren Becker, a dentist based in New York City.

Corn On The Cob

“Eating corn on the cob by biting directly into the kernels can put significant pressure on your front teeth,” Pezzullo said. “This can lead to tooth fractures, chipped teeth, or even dislodging of dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns.” Instead, cut the kernels off the cob and consume them with a fork, or enjoy cooked corn in a different form, like corn salads or soups.

Pickles

Similar to citrus fruits, pickles are acidic and can contribute to enamel erosion. A few pickles here and there aren’t likely to cause dental damage, said Dr. Elizabeth Cranford Robinson, a dentist at Cranford Dental in Rock Hill, South Carolina. But if you happen to be a pickle fiend, consider enjoying them as part of a meal as opposed to solo to minimize acid exposure.

Popcorn

Popcorn hulls can get wedged in your gums and cause inflammation, so do your best to make brushing and flossing a post-popcorn ritual. “As you’re eating, also take care not to crunch on any kernels,” Robinson said. “They aren’t meant to be chewed and can cause a tooth to break.”

Dr. Lakshmi Ramgopal