Dental Health

5 Foods Harming Your Teeth (And 5 That Help!)

By Dr. Rajshikha Deka | October 24, 2025

What you eat affects your teeth as much as your overall health. Here are five foods that can harm your smile—and five that can help protect it.

5 Foods to Limit

• Soda: High in sugar and acid, leading to enamel erosion.
• Sticky Candies: Linger on teeth and feed bacteria.
• Citrus Fruits: Healthy, but acidic—rinse your mouth after eating.
• Chips and Crackers: Turn into sugar between teeth.
• Coffee & Wine: Stain enamel over time.

5 Foods That Help

• Cheese: Neutralizes acids and strengthens enamel.
• Apples: Naturally scrub teeth while boosting saliva flow.
• Leafy Greens: Full of calcium and minerals.
• Yogurt: Provides probiotics for gum health.
• Water: The simplest way to wash away food and bacteria.