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People often avoid sugar to protect their teeth . Sweets and fizzy drinks often top the list. But did you know that some of the foods we think are ‘healthy’ can harm dental health ? According to Dr Miles Madison, a periodontist and dental implant specialist trained at the University of California, it is not just what you eat. In an Instagram video, the Beverly Hills-based expert said that factors such as how sticky, sugary, or acidic the food is, and how long it lingers in your mouth, also matter. Take a look at the five surprising foods that are bad for your teeth.

Dried fruits

You may have switched to ‘healthy snacks’ in the hope of improving your overall health. But guess what: dried fruits may not really align with your dental health. “Although we think they are natural and healthy, they are very sticky and high in concentrated sugars that stick to the teeth and can promote the bacteria that cause cavities,” the dentist said. people struggle with poor oral health globally, according to the WHO. Sometimes even the healthiest habits can backfire.

Crackers and chips

If you think only sweet snacks can harm your teeth, do not be fooled. According to Dr Madison, snacks like crackers, chips, and Goldfish can still put your dental health in trouble. He explained that these snacks are high in refined starch, which quickly breaks down into simple sugars when you chew. The particles also get trapped between teeth, feeding cavity-causing bacteria for hours. A 1993 study found that snacks like chips, cheese doodles, and crackers cause a bigger and longer-lasting drop in plaque pH as they stay in the mouth longer. This can lead to , as the lower (more acidic) pH allows bacteria to dissolve tooth enamel.

Ice

If you have a habit of chewing ice, this is your sign to stop. Chewing ice is a fast track to enamel damage. “I see a lot of people chewing on ice after the drink is done. Chewing on ice can weaken your enamel and lead to fractures of your teeth,” the dentist cautioned. So the next time you finish your drink, ignore the urge to chew on the ice.

Flavoured yogurts

In this clean-eating era, everyone is obsessed with yogurt s. But guess what: the flavoured ones are not ideal for your health, including your teeth. Yogurt has a reputation for being gut-friendly and even preventing colon cancer, but many flavoured yogurts contain as much sugar as a dessert. Dr Madison agrees that flavoured yogurts are packed with sugar, and it is best to avoid them if you want to maintain good dental health.

Barbecue sauce and ketchup

BBQ sauce and ketchup are two of the most deceptively sugary condiments available on the market. They may give our dishes a finishing touch, but they are loaded with sugar. “These sauces, especially in the U.S., are jam-packed with sugar. In fact, one pack of ketchup in the U.S. has more sugar in it than a pack of sugar. So just say hell no and avoid these things,” the doctor said.

Sometimes simple changes can make big differences. In this case, avoiding certain foods can also do the trick. “Remember to choose carefully what you eat and especially pay attention to how much sugar you allow as well,” the dentist added.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.