Is Fruit Bad for Your Teeth?

unsplash-image-26dzQ6MNcXs.jpg

An apple a day keeps the… dentist away?

First off, let’s start with a disclaimer: fruit (and vegetables) are an essential part of a healthy diet, and so we’re not recommending you stop eating fruit altogether. The trick here is figuring out which fruits are harder on your teeth — and seeing if you can switch them out for other fruits with the same (or higher) concentration of vitamins your body needs. This, plus a healthy dose of moderation will help keep your teeth healthier overall.

Think of this blog as ‘fruit for thought’ :)

How fruit affects our teeth

As great as those natural sugars and acids are in fruit, they can cause some problems inside your mouth. And, because we’ve talked about how sugar affects your teeth, we know that it can lead to the breakdown of enamel — the protective outer layer of our teeth that safeguards against bacteria and decay.

This, along with the acidic nature of many fruits, can actually soften the enamel, which can also lead to erosion and, eventually, tooth decay.

Signs of enamel erosion:

  • Increased sensitivity

  • Discolouration or transparency

  • Rounded or cracking teeth

If you are experiencing any signs of enamel erosion, it is important to call your Lethbridge dentist for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment can help preserve your teeth and prevent more serious problems down the road.

Which fruits are bad for teeth?

Generally speaking, if it’s high in sugar and acidity (which most fruits are), then it’s not great for your teeth.

Highly acidic fruits are:

  • Pineapples

  • Grapes

  • Oranges

Switch them out for…

Opt for fruits that are lower in sugar and acidity that will still provide your body with daily vitamins and antioxidants like:

  • Berries

  • Peaches

  • Apples (they really do keep all the doctors away, don’t they?!)

Tricks to protect your teeth

  • Drink fruit juice from a straw (to avoid it sitting inside your mouth and on your teeth)

  • Enjoy your favourite super-sweet (or sour) fruits in moderation

  • Rinse your mouth out with water after you indulge to wash away any sugar left on the surface of your teeth (which is also a good practice to do after every meal anyway)

Maintaining healthier teeth with your favourite fruits

Remember that fruit is certainly a great health-booster, and so should always be a part of your diet. But, to keep your teeth healthy and strong, aim for moderation and variety in your fruit indulgences. After all, variety is a spice of life, right? We hope you found this information fruitful.

At our dental clinic in Lethbridge, Canada, we can provide you with the care you need to protect your smile. Contact us today at 403-381-1155 to schedule a consultation.

Conner Hendry