Most people fall into one of two categories: those who prefer salty snacks and those who prefer sweet ones. If you like pretzels and other similar foods, you might assume your smile is safe. After all, dentists place a strong emphasis on the harmful effects of eating too many sweets. But is salt any better? Your dentist shares why some of your carb-filled favorites may be just as harmful to your teeth.
The Pros & Cons of Salt and Your Smile
Does the term, “Too much of a good thing” sound familiar? If so, you’ve likely heard it when something is enjoyed in excess. While some people might believe that chocolate is something you can never have too much of, others would argue salt is the same way.
The truth is that when used in moderation, salt can be beneficial for your oral health. For example, your dentist might recommend a salt water rinse to help flush out bacteria and encourage faster healing. Also, when consuming just enough sodium (salt), it can make it harder for harmful bacteria to live inside your mouth.
But what about the negative effects of salt on your teeth? Here are a few to consider:
- When eating carbohydrates that are high in sodium, these foods turn into starches and simple sugars. Since bacteria are known to feed on sugar, it can cause harmful acids to form inside the mouth, resulting in a breakdown of tooth decay and ultimately, cavities.
- Too much salt depletes the calcium within your body – a nutrient that is highly beneficial in strengthening tooth enamel. Without it, you are at risk of possible tooth loss.
Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid
Although there are far more than those mentioned below, some savory/salty snacks that are problematic if consumed in excess include:
- Bread
- Pizza
- Pasta
- Potato chips
- Pretzels
- White rice
However, if you trade the starches above for the following healthier options, you may notice a positive difference in the health of your teeth and gums. These include calcium-enriched foods (i.e., milk, yogurt, cheese), high-phosphorus foods (i.e., fish, lentils, brown rice, chicken), fruits and vegetables, and those high in omega fatty acids (i.e., fatty fish, eggs, walnuts).
Remember, you don’t have to eliminate salt from your diet altogether, just realize that moderation is key. Making the appropriate changes to your daily food intake will better protect your pearly whites so that they remain healthy and strong year after year.
About the Author
Dr. Duane Keuning joined Juno Beach Smiles in 2002 and continues to provide the highest level of quality dental care to patients living in and around Juno Beach. Alongside his colleague, Dr. Riley, they provide exceptional preventive services that are designed to catch problems before they ever start. If you or a loved one is looking to take better care of your smile, call our dental office at (561) 622-7243 to learn how we can help.