That is, they may actually help protect tooth enamel by counteracting acidity or by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth. Although firm fruits contain natural sugars that are fermentable, they have a high water content that dilutes the effects of the sugar and they stimulate the flow of saliva, which has antibacterial factors and helps protect against decay. Vegetables do not contain enough carbohydrates to be dangerous. These foods provide a source of sugar for certain bacteria on the teeth to produce acid. The problem can be worse if the foods stick to or get caught between teeth.
Fruit juices contain natural sugars that can also cause decay.
Limit the amount of time you take to drink any of these drinks instead of sipping them throughout the day. A can a soda finished with a meal in 20 minutes is better than a can of soda finished in two hours because it will decrease the amount of time your teeth are exposed to high acid levels. Water helps flush away food debris and can dilute the sugar acids. Avoid sucking on hard candies or mints, even the tiny ones. They have enough sugar to increase the acid produced by bacteria to decay levels.