These 8 foods do more damage to your teeth than candy

In this Friday, Jan. 22, 2016 photo, dental resident Madison Myers Galloway checks the teeth of Justin Perez, 11, during an office visit at Riley Hospital for Children's Department of Pediatric Dentistry in Indianapolis. A federal report says three out of four children did not receive all required dental services, such as regular checkups and fluoride treatments, in Medicaid programs in four states. One in four kids failed to see a dentist at all. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

With Halloween right around the corner, we’re feeling tempted to indulge in the sweets of the season.

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But what about the persistent belief that candy destroys your teeth?

RELATED: These 10 foods you eat all the time are seriously damaging your teeth

While you probably shouldn’t take this information as an excuse to eat all the candy you want, dentists now say that it isn’t sugar that’s destroying people’s teeth — rather, it’s acidic foods and drinks.

To keep your teeth in top condition, stay away from highly acidic foods, such as:

  • Saltines
  • Goldfish crackers
  • Dried fruit
  • Cough drops
  • Grapefruit

Also, avoid or limit consumption of certain beverages, including:

  • Coffee
  • Diet soda
  • Bottled lemon iced tea

RELATED: This simple homemade mouthwash removes stubborn plaque in no time at all

If you really want to know which everyday foods are doing the most damage, use some pH testing strips. Try to eat more foods that are as close to neutral (7.0) as possible.

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