A dentist has shared the seven common foods and beverages which could be having a detrimental effect on our teeth. For the majority of people, having healthy teeth and an aesthetically

pleasing smile is important, with countless whitening products on the market aimed at offering a sense of Hollywood sparkle at home. A group of board-certified oral surgeons and restorative

doctors at Doctors Implants, a dental practice specialising in restorative and implant dentistry, have weighed in on how our diet and drinking habits could be undermining all efforts to

maintain perfect pearly whites. An expert explained: “The foods you regularly consume can have a lasting impact on both the health and aesthetics of your smile. Taking steps to protect your

and harm implants if not properly cared for. A restorative specialist at Doctors Implants said: “People assume fruits are always beneficial for their health, but the acidity in citrus can

lead to enamel thinning over time.” To reduce the impact, it’s advised to enjoy these fruits in moderation and rinse with water afterward to neutralise acid levels in your mouth. DRIED

FRUITS Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and figs are often marketed as healthy snacks, but the sticky texture of them can cling to teeth and implants, allowing sugar to settle and feed

harmful bacteria into your mouth and the rest of your body. An oral surgeon at Doctors Implants said: “The concentrated sugars in dried fruits can be just as damaging as [sweets]. We

recommend choosing fresh fruits over dried options, and when enjoying dried fruits, you should brush and floss afterward to prevent decay.” SPORTS AND ENERGY DRINKS Though they may be

refreshing, sports and energy drinks are high in sugar and acidity - a potent combination for tooth decay and implant damage. “The acidity weakens enamel, while sugar fuels bacteria that

cause decay,” explains Doctors Implants. The team recommends opting for water instead, though if you do consume these beverages, use a straw to minimise direct contact with your teeth, and

rinse with water afterward to wash away residual sugar. COFFEE AND TEA Coffee and tea, like red wine, contain tannins that can easily stain teeth and implants, especially with prolonged

daily consumption. “Over time, staining can dull even the most carefully maintained smile,” says Doctors Implants. Limiting intake, using a straw, or choosing lighter teas can reduce

staining, and regular cleanings can help maintain a bright smile. TOMATO-BASED SAUCES Tomatoes are acidic by nature. The experts warn: “When acidic sauces linger in the mouth, they have a

double impact—causing erosion and discoloration.” They recommend pairing tomato-based sauces with foods high in calcium, like cheese, which can help neutralise acidity, and rinsing with

water right after a meal. VINEGAR-BASED FOODS Gherkins, salad dressings, and other vinegar-rich foods pack a punch in flavour but also contain high levels of acid. “Vinegar is a hidden

culprit of enamel erosion,” the doctors explain. If you enjoy these tangy foods, consider having them during a main meal rather than as snacks to reduce acidity exposure. Drinking water

afterward can also help dilute the acids. BERRIES Berries, particularly blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, are antioxidant-rich but have dark pigments that can stain teeth over

time. “Berries are fantastic for health, but they can alter the shade of your smile if not balanced with care,” the doctors at Doctors Implants advise. For a radiant smile, rinse your mouth

or brush after eating berries, or opt for a professional whitening treatment if you notice discolouration.