Think you know all there is to know about your pearly whites? What you don't know about what causes and fights cavities could surprise you.
Brushing twice a day helps keep our gums and teeth healthy, but what's another proven cavity fighter? Is it green tea, dried fruit, or lemons? The answer? Serve up a hot cup of green tea for its cavity fighting properties, the polyphenols in tea suppress bacteria in your mouth.
Next, brushing your teeth is the best way to fight cavities right? Wrong! Dr. Blanche Grube says, while important, your diet is even more important.
"You get cavities because you have too much sugar or refined carbohydrates in your diet. We are what we eat. It's that simple," said Grube.
Besides candy and sugary drinks, eating starchy foods like white bread and french fries is just as bad. It all turns into sugar, and can rot your teeth.
Are sugar-free energy drinks safe for your teeth?
No way! A recent study shows all energy drinks can do serious damage. The acid in them starts destroying teeth after only five days of consistent use.
"It's what we eat. It's what we eat. It's what we eat," Grube said.
Finally, if you want to protect the enamel on your teeth, what should you avoid doing immediately after eating acidic foods? Brushing your teeth, chewing gum, or eating hard cheese? The answer, you should not brush your teeth. The acid in things like soda, wine or citrus fruit softens your enamel. To avoid damaging it, wait at least 30 minutes to brush. It gives your saliva enough time to neutralize the acid.
If you're wondering about coffee and cavities, here's some interesting information. A 2002 study found roasted coffee beans have anti-bacterial properties that may prevent cavities.
If you drink lattes, you're not as lucky. Some dentist say sipping the sugary drinks throughout the day can make your mouth a breeding ground for cavity causing bacteria.
For More Information, Contact:
Dr. Blanche D. Grube Clinic
Eileen Terbovich
570-343-1500
eileen@drblanchegrube.com
