Everyone knows that sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities, which is why so many parents try to limit their children’s intake of candies, sodas, and juices. However, sweet treats aren’t the only culprits behind enamel-eating bacteria. According to dentists in Grayslake, here are three unexpected foods that can contribute to your cavities.
Surprising Foods That Contribute to Cavities
1. Dried Fruit
Fruit is considered “nature’s candy,” so dried fruit is just as healthy, right? Actually, many brands of dried fruit contain high amounts of added sugars to keep them palatable to the general public. They have also been dehydrated to remove most of the water content, which means you’re consuming more sugars per bite than if you were to eat the whole fruit in its original state.
2. Saltine Crackers
A pantry staple in most households, saltine crackers are essentially starches and salt in edible form. These crackers don’t taste sugary, but the starches contained within are quickly broken down into sugars by your body’s digestive system. They also have a habit of turning to mush and flooding into the nooks and crannies inside your mouth. Combined, these two effects work together to feed cavity-causing bacteria.
3. Diet Soda
Diet soda doesn’t contain soda, but they are still acidic enough to harm your teeth. The carbonated liquid can weaken your enamel, eventually lowering your teeth’s natural defense against cavities.
Your Neighborhood Dentist
Along with limiting the above foods, it’s important to get regular check-ups at your family dentist in Grayslake. If you have questions or concerns about your oral health, reach out to the friendly staff at Reilly & Siegel Family Dental at RLBDentist.com to schedule an appointment.
