No research ‘outs’ surprise food that can damage your teeth

Research, carried out by the University Dental Hospital in Manchester has revealed that the food and drink we consider healthy could in fact be very damaging for our teeth.

The study, which focussed on the damage to the protective enamel on the outside of teeth, found that herbal teas and citrus fruits were particularly erosive. Blackcurrant and raspberry teas were most likely to stain teeth and cause permanent damage to the enamel, leaving the teeth vulnerable to decay.  Regular consumption of citrus fruits, which are highly acidic, could also wear down enamel.

One of the best ways to protect your teeth from excessive enamel erosion is to wait at least sixty minutes after a meal before brushing your teeth. Sugary and acidic foods can soften the enamel on your teeth, saliva will naturally neutralise this process, but until then the enamel is vulnerable to damage from your tooth brush.

The researchers were keen to stress that it isn’t essential to avoid eating or drinking anything, but moderation is important, especially if the food and drink were acidic or sugary.