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General Dental

We often talk about brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups as key steps in maintaining good oral health. But there’s another important factor that often gets overlooked – what you eat. The foods you choose every day can either help protect your teeth or increase your risk of decay, erosion, and gum disease.

Understanding which foods are good and bad for your teeth can help you make small changes that can have a significant impact on your oral health. Read on to find out the best and worst foods and drinks  for your teeth – and why it matters.

How diet impacts your oral health

The relationship between what you eat and your teeth is widely recognised. Nutrient-rich foods support strong teeth and gums, while sugary or acidic foods and drinks can promote decay and enamel erosion. Over time, your dietary habits can make a real difference in whether you enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile or end up needing dental work you could have avoided.

When you regularly consume foods that are good and bad for your teeth, the balance tips. Choosing more tooth-friendly foods helps maintain enamel strength, reduces inflammation in your gums, and supports good bacteria in your mouth. On the other hand, regular consumption of sugary and acidic items increases the risk of cavities, plaque buildup, and gum issues.

5 foods and drinks that are good for your teeth

These foods not only taste great but also help keep your teeth and gums in top shape:

  • Cheese: High in calcium and phosphate, cheese helps strengthen tooth enamel and balance the pH level in your mouth, which reduces acid that causes decay.
  • Crunchy vegetables and some fruits (like apples, carrots and celery): Their texture stimulates saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids. They also provide vitamins like A and C that support gum health.
  • Yoghurt: A good source of calcium and probiotics, yoghurt helps strengthen teeth and supports a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth.
  • Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other greens are rich in calcium and folic acid, which contribute to healthy gums and tooth enamel.
  • 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 –Drinking plenty of water is really important to maintain good oral health and reduces your risk of cavities by rinsing food particles away and neutralising acid in the mouth.

5 foods and drinks that are bad for your teeth

Here are some foods that can cause damage over time if eaten regularly:

  • Lollies: These are high in sugar and tend to stick to teeth, feeding harmful bacteria and increasing the risk of cavities.
  • Soft drinks, sports drinks and most flavoured drinks: They contain high levels of sugar and acid, which wear down enamel and promote decay. It’s important to note that even sugar-free versions can be acidic and affect your teeth.
  • Citrus fruits (like lemons and oranges): While healthy in moderation, their acid content can erode enamel over time.
  • White bread and crackers: Starches break down into sugar and tend to get stuck in between teeth, which can lead to plaque buildup.
  • Dried fruit: Although often seen as a healthy snack, dried fruit is sticky and high in sugar, which makes it a frequent culprit in tooth decay.

Small changes can make a big impact

Being more mindful of the foods and drinks that are good and bad for your teeth can help you protect your oral health without giving up everything you love. We’re not recommending that you cut out all sugary or acidic foods entirely. Instead, we advocate for finding a healthy balance, eating more of those foods that are good for your teeth, rinsing with water after consuming foods or drinks higher in sugar or acid (and consume these foods with limited frequency) and maintaining a strong daily dental care routine.

At Hampton Beach Dentists, we’re here to support every part of your dental health, including your diet. Whether you need advice on the best foods for your teeth or you’re due for a check-up, our friendly team is ready to help. Call us on 03 9598 5666 to book your appointment today.