Certain foods we eat my seem good for you, but can cause serious damage to your teeth.  Personally, popcorn and sports drinks are at the top of the list in my practice.  It seems like once a month I see someone who has a horribly fractured tooth due to popcorn.  Here are some other examples of foods and drinks that can be bad for your smile.

Apples -  Apples are high in acid, are surprisingly hard on your enamel. While a daily apple may keep the doctor away, the acid might keep your dentist on speed dial. Eating apples is fine, just be sure to rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash shortly after.

Hard Candies -  Though you probably know the sugar in candy is a problem, hard candies are especially harmful because we tend to hold them in our mouths longer. Also be aware that cough drops are often made with sugar, so opt for the sugar-free brand if available.

Pickled Vegetables -  Pickles are made with vinegar, which is acidic, and often sugar as well. While the vegetables are healthy, the brine is can damage your teeth. Drinking water with your meal helps wash away acids and sugar, but remember to brush an hour later.

The mouth's a funny thing. It's the source of one of the most beautiful things around - a smile - and also home to tons of bacteria. Maintaining a clean mouth isn't always easy, but there are definitely some things you can do to at home or work to keep your mouth fresh:

- Brush and floss daily

- See your dentist every six months

- Drink plenty of fluoridated water

- Maintain a well-balanced diet

Now let's a take a look at how these best practices for your mouth can do wonders for your mind and body.

Why Keep It Clean?

Your teeth and heart will stay in tip-top shape. Dental diseases like tooth decay and gum disease may seem inevitable, but they're not. Brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist regularly can all help keep dental diseases in check. And being free of dental disease is not only great for your mouth; it's great for the health of your heart,

too (studies show that plaque buildup and periodontal disease are linked to heart disease). Staying on top of regular dental exams/checkups and professional teeth cleanings can also help you save thousands on more expensive treatments in the long run.

You'll keep your natural smile in tact. It may not seem like a big deal to lose a tooth, but it is. Fact is if you lose a tooth to decay all of your other teeth are affected. Your remaining teeth could eventually shift, making it increasingly difficult to chew and even speak properly. And while dental implants, veneers and dentures are all excellent solutions, they can also be time consuming and costly.

Your breath will smell fresh, not foul. No one wants to have bad breath and no one wants to smell it. Practicing good oral hygiene habits can help; so can professional dental cleanings. During a cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and bad breath if not removed. Eating well and drinking plenty of water is important, too. Be sure to check out our guide to smart snacks for tips.

A clean mouth can boost your confidence during job interviews. Whether the economy's good or bad, it's always a good idea to have solid interview skills. But when you don't feel good about your smile, it shows. It could inhibit your self-expression, making you seem aloof or disinterested to a potential employer. When you aren't self-conscious about the cleanliness or health of your mouth, you're more likely to eagerly engage in conversations.

It's just more attractive than a dirty mouth. When we feel attractive, we tend to radiate those good feelings. While many things can contribute to a good mood, having a clean, healthy mouth is a constant positive. It can give you the self-assurance to smile, socialize and show off your charm. Plus, a clean mouth is a fresh mouth; someone with a dirty mouth probably has bad breath — and that's not attractive.

Taking charge of your dental health is empowering. When you procrastinate, whatever you're avoiding weighs heavy on your subconscious. But when you take the initiative to face something you'd rather not, you can finally get on with your life free of anxiety and worry. Taking charge of your dental care instead of avoiding the dentist can help you clear the clutter from your mind and make you feel healthy, responsible and empowered.

The mind and body are interconnected. So when one isn't clean or healthy, chances are neither is the other. It's no different when it comes to your mouth!

We've shown you how a clean mouth can do wonders for your mind and body. Now it's your turn to take it from here. But remember, a great dentist is a vital part of the solution.