Caries, which is the medical term for tooth decay, can be caused by many factors.
Caries essential is a progressive destruction of tooth surface caused by the demineralization of teeth. Genetics, shape of teeth and gums, and diet are among the large contributing factors. The diet is the factor that is most in our control. Most everyone has heard that drinks high in sugar and candy can “rot your teeth”. For those that have wondered if there is more to it we wanted to provide some guidelines.
What Are Cariogenic Foods?
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines cariogenic as “producing or promoting the development of tooth decay”. Several important factors contribute to how cariogenic a food can be. These include highly fermentable carbohydrates, foods that stick to the teeth like some hard candies, the frequency of intake, liquid vs. solid, and composition of nutrients.
Why are Fermentable Carbohydrates Dangerous?
A simple answer is that when these carbohydrates are consumed, the bacteria residing in the mouth break them down. The byproducts reduce the pH in the mouth. This allows for a change in the composition of bacteria, many of which are of the more harmful variety. The complex interaction and resulting acidity shifts the equilibrium to a point where the minerals are stripped from the tooth structure. This is the beginnings of decay.
What Foods Contain Highly Fermentable Carbohydrates?
Some examples of these foods are sweets (candy, cakes, cookies, etc.), crackers, pretzels, potato chips, bananas, sodas, fruit juices and raisins. The list goes on and on but a pattern emerges when viewing these foods. Many of these foods are suggested to be avoided in most diets suggested with our current knowledge.
Additional Tips
- After eating foods that are especially sticky, rinse or brush
- If you drink acidic drinks, do so through a straw
- Keeping in mind that frequency of intake of carbohydrates is more contributory to caries than amount of intake, avoid snacking on these foods throughout the day
- Brush and floss regularly (of course)
- Sodas and fruit juices should be consumed in moderation
- Calcium, phosphate, and Vitamin D contained in dairy products protect the teeth and can increase the mineral content and strength
- Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can help remove the remaining carbohydrates on the teeth and gums. Eating carrots, celery, or other crunchy vegetables can act in the same fashion
- Avoid an overabundance of lemons, limes, other citrus fruits, and acidic foods and drinks. These can erode the tooth structure and cause permanent damage
Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry is dedicated to educating the public about oral health. Feel free to visit and read our past blog segments to learn more! If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation to determine your risk levels, feel free to call us at (904)285-7711 or contact us online.