Everyone knows that you are supposed to eat a healthy serving of fruits and vegetables each day. But with so many different food products to choose from and so many raw substances to eat, it can be impossible to get a full dose in every day. That is why a lot of people resort to making smoothies. But are fruit smoothies bad for your teeth?

Are Fruit Smoothies Bad for Your Teeth?

Combining fruit, veggies, and other healthy ingredients in a blender with some ice can create an instant breakfast. These refreshing, creamy drinks can be the perfect meal when you’re on the go. They bring a lot of advantages, but there are some pitfalls too. For example, are fruit smoothies bad for your teeth? Your local DTLA dentist explains it all below.

The Antioxidant Answer

Smoothies have been popular breakfast items for a long while. People can’t seem to get enough of the sweet flavor and the burst of healthy vitamins and supplements that you are putting in your body all while enjoying a delicious treat. Perhaps the biggest advantage you can get from drinking smoothies is an increase in antioxidants, which can strengthen your immune system and help you fight disease.

There’s just one problem: Fruit juices and blended ingredients are very high in sugar and acid. These two things can break down the surface layers of your teeth, causing your mouth to become more susceptible to infection. Next time you reach for the blender, consider taking some oral hygiene steps to prevent too much damage from happening at once.

Wear and Tear on the Teeth

Sugar and acid can erode the enamel on your tooth, which is the outermost layer keeping it protected from the elements. As you eat more ascorbic acid and sugar, your teeth become weaker and weaker. Eventually, this can lead to rapid decay, tooth loss, and oral disease.

But don’t worry, this does not mean you have to give up your favorite fruity blended drink! The health benefits they bring to the whole body are too great to ignore. But you should try to invest in oral health hygiene to prevent acid buildup and the breakdown of your enamel.

Practicing Precautions While Enjoying Your Smoothie

Don’t give up the blended fruits and veggies! Just be more cautious. Here are some tips you can follow to keep your teeth strong and protected against natural sugars and acids:

Eat with your smoothie. Eat other foods along with your smoothie so your teeth aren’t constantly under attack by the acids in your drink. Try not to drink the smoothie slowly throughout the day either.
Brush before and after you drink it. Make sure your teeth are cleaned and protected before you indulge in a sugary smoothie. And as soon as you are done, give your teeth another brush!
Drink through a straw. A smoothie is just as delicious when you drink it through a straw. Plus, you can avoid the smoothie material touching your teeth while you drink.
Reduce citric acids. Citrus is great for your smoothie, but try reducing the amount of orange juice you add to your next smoothie. Just give your teeth a little bit of a break.

You can continue enjoying healthy smoothies without ruining your daily routine. But remember to take extra care of your teeth so you don’t deal with prolonged dental issues later down the line.

Avoid Cavities and Stay Healthy for the Future!

Drinking smoothies can become a dangerously yummy habit. While these drinkable meals are stuffed full of healthy fruits, vegetables, and vitamins, they are a lot healthier for your body than they are for your teeth. Too much sugar and acid could cause decay, leading to infection and cavities. Reach out to your trusted dentist today to learn more about cavity treatment in DTLA and find out how you can have the best daily health regime!