Diet Habits that Cause Tooth Decay

Think you’re familiar with everything there is to know about what causes cavities? You may be surprised to learn that it’s not necessarily linked with how many lollies you eat. It turns out, healthy people with seemingly healthy lifestyles can also be prone to a higher level of tooth decay if they’re not careful.

Here are a few of the most common ones we see in our Wantrina South office:

Subbing Your Soft Drink for Diet Soda

“Sugar free” diet sodas don’t mean “cavity free.” Even artificial sweeteners and low pH levels encourage acidic environments and bacterial growth inside of your mouth. 

Sipping on a diet soda for a couple of hours each afternoon will start to add up. As the liquids coat all of your tooth surfaces, your saliva breaks down the artificial sweeteners, causing acid biofilm production. The longer it sits on your teeth, the more it etches away at your healthy enamel. 

Liquid-induced cavities tend to start first in the deep grooves and fissures of your molars (back teeth) and between teeth where a brush doesn’t reach. 

Hydrating with Sports Drinks

Again, sports drinks are seen as a healthy alternative for athletes of all types to stay hydrated during their activity. But they should be used sparingly, like when it’s hot outside or during intensive training activities. When you can, rinse your mouth out with water after drinking them.

Like diet soda, sports drinks can be damaging to teeth if consumed frequently. In fact, numerous studies have shown that sports drinks are worse on teeth than naturally sweetened sodas. 

Carbs, Carbs, Carbs

Processed carbohydrates of all kinds can raise plaque biofilm levels. Since plaque harbors acids that eat away at enamel, snacking on carbs during the day can raise your natural biofilm levels. 

Have Your Teeth Examined Every Six Months

At Studfield Dental Group, we help your Wantrina South family make smart lifestyle choices that facilitate healthier smiles. Schedule your next checkup today!