At a time in history when heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity are rampant, many people are beginning to explore healthier food alternatives. Unfortunately, many of the so-called "healthy" food alternatives can harm your teeth. So, while your waistline shrinks, unbeknownst to you, your teeth could be deteriorating.

However, with a few simple adjustments to the way you eat these healthy foods, you can continue to enjoy them whilst protecting your teeth. Here are 2 healthy additions to your diet that might be harming your teeth, and alternative and teeth-friendly ways of consuming them.

Dried Fruits

If you have swapped junk food such as chocolate bars, candies and crisps for dried fruit, you need to be aware of the risks to your teeth. Dried fruits are a major source of nutrients, antioxidants and fibre, with a single serving loaded with essential vitamins like iron and vitamin K.

However, because dried fruits like prunes are rich in sugar and very sticky, they can cause tooth decay. Tooth decay–causing bacteria such as streptococcus mutans consume the sugars that stick to your teeth, then secrete acid that eats away at the enamel. Don't stop eating dried fruit. Instead, 30 minutes after every portion of dried fruit, brush and floss your teeth to remove any remaining dried fruit debris.

Vinegar

Vinegar is beneficial to your health in a myriad of ways. For instance, incorporating malt or apple cider vinegar into your diet can help lower your blood pressure and help you to lose weight. But once again, if you add vinegar to your salads or drink it raw, your teeth will suffer.

The pH of vinegar is typically around 3, while the pH of healthy saliva is usually somewhere between 6.5 and 7.5. If the pH of your saliva falls below 5.5, it becomes acidic enough to cause your teeth to demineralise. In other words, vinegar strips the enamel from your teeth. To protect your teeth when drinking vinegar, dilute it with water to lower its acidity.

When making salad dressings, mix the vinegar with water and olive oil to reduce its acidity. Furthermore, rinse your mouth out with water whenever you consume vinegar, and drink a glass of water to help keep the pH of your saliva at a safe level.

Cosmetic Dentistry for Acid Erosion

If the enamel of your teeth is brittle, your teeth will be susceptible to chips, cracks and breakages, as well as tooth decay. A cosmetic dentistry professional can strengthen weakened teeth by applying composite bonding to them. Composite resin lasts several years and can protect teeth that have been weakened by acid erosion. It can also improve the appearance of damaged teeth.

If your teeth are beginning to deteriorate, act quickly. Book a dental appointment right away so your dentist can protect your teeth with dental bonding.