Singaporean foods that can affect oral health

Ask 10 Singaporeans what they love most about the country, and there’s a good chance many will say, “the food.” It’s at the heart of our daily lives, celebrations, and even casual conversations. We’re fiercely proud of our culinary legacy – from our UNESCO-recognised hawker culture to the Michelin-minted street food and restaurants around the city.

But while our dining scene brings immense joy and pride, some of Singapore’s most beloved local dishes can unknowingly take a toll on oral health.

Now, before you get defensive, don’t worry – we’re not here to cancel the dishes we all hold so dear. But food feeds bacteria in the mouth, and if you want to avoid common oral care issues like bad breath, cavities, gum problems, and plaque buildup, it’s worth paying attention to how certain local favourites might be quietly fuelling harmful bacterial growth, and why that matters for your oral health.

Here’s a closer look at 4 popular Singaporean dishes that could be causing oral care issues, and how you can actively prevent said problems with the help of the upgraded Colgate Total toothpastes.

1. Kopi

Few drinks perk you up in the morning like a cup of Nanyang kopi, brewed in a sock and a long-necked kettle by the kopitiam uncle who knows you by name.

If you struggle with bad breath issues, however, your daily kopi might be the culprit. Coffee is acidic and rich in tannins, both of which create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Condensed and evaporated milk – 2 staples in local kopi – also feed bacteria, causing them to produce more of the volatile sulphur compounds that cause bad breath.

You don’t have to forgo your morning caffeine fix, though. Brushing your teeth with an antibacterial toothpaste and drinking water after you lim kopi does wonders to keep bad breath at bay, as it eliminates the pesky, unseen bacteria at the root of the issue.

2. Kaya toast

Sugar is fuel for oral bacteria, enabling these micro-organisms to multiply. And what’s packed with sugar? Another local breakfast favourite, kaya toast.

A jar of this rich and custardy coconut jam contains anywhere from 80 to 120g of sugar, which attracts bacteria that can, in the long run, cause plaque to build up and cavities to form.

To keep your kaya toast habit going, make sure you stay diligent with your tooth-brushing regimen so your teeth stay clean and protected.

3. Bubble tea

Another beloved drink where high sugar and tannins go hand-in-hand is bubble tea. While you’re better off ordering a plain brewed tea with no sugar, we know it’s hard to resist a classic milk tea with full sugar and all the toppings.

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Unfortunately, all that sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth, while the tannins can contribute to staining and dryness, which then creates the perfect storm for plaque buildup, cavities, and bad breath over time.

We know this isn’t going to stop you from indulging in bubble tea, so as with kopi and kaya toast, the combination of moderation, plus brushing twice a day with an antibacterial toothpaste and drinking lots of water, can help mitigate long-term oral care issues.

4. Chilli crab

Whenever chilli crab is served at the table, you know it’s a party. Singapore’s national dish is a go-to for special occasions, as loved ones gather to sink their claws into mud crabs stir-fried in a sweet, tangy tomato-chilli sauce.

That delicious sauce, however, is highly acidic, thanks to the combination of tomatoes and chillies – a recipe for weakening your tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity and discolouration.

Unlike other parts of your body, tooth enamel doesn’t renew itself once it’s worn down, which means active prevention against its degradation is all the more important.

Colgate Total can help actively prevent key oral care issues

While you can’t see oral bacteria, they’re constantly at work, fueled by the foods and drinks we love. When left unchecked, they can build up on your teeth, gums, and tongue, leading to oral care issues that can significantly affect your quality of life.

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After all, you don’t want to be the person in your office known for having kopi breath, or suffer from enamel so worn down that you wince when you take a sip of ice-cold bubble tea.

Bacteria levels in one’s mouth before (left) and after (right) using Colgate Total toothpaste.

To help minimise oral bacteria, Colgate’s Total toothpaste range now comes with an upgraded formula. It offers 24-hour antibacterial protection, working around the clock to guard your mouth. In the long run, this helps prevent a range of oral care issues, from gum problems and enamel erosion to plaque and tartar buildup, sensitivity, stains, bad breath, and cavities.

Image credit: Colgate

The line comprises 5 different Total toothpaste formulations, each offering unique benefits and sensorial experiences alongside their antibacterial prowess. These are:

• Charcoal Clean: A mild and creamy charcoal toothpaste with a refreshing peppermint taste, perfect for a gentle yet thorough clean.
• Whitening: An intensely cooling peppermint toothpaste that helps to whiten teeth while delivering a crisp, invigorating freshness.
• Fresh Mint: Freshens breath with a lively blend of peppermint, complemented by subtle notes of cinnamon and clove.
• Sensitivity + Gum Health: Designed for those who want to prevent sensitive teeth and care for their gums, this mild spearmint toothpaste offers a soothing clean without being overly foamy or aggressively cooling.
• Breath Health: Combats bad breath and imparts long-lasting freshness with a strong, cooling peppermint blend.

Ultimately, enjoying Singapore’s iconic dishes doesn’t mean you need to compromise your oral health.

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When you stay mindful of hidden sugars, acids, and tannins in your diet, and maintain a strong daily oral care routine with an antibacterial toothpaste, you can keep harmful bacteria at bay and protect your smile in the long run.

Colgate Total toothpastes are available at select retailers, pharmacies, and supermarkets nationwide. You can also find them at online Colgate’s official Shopee and Lazada stores.

Learn more about Colgate Total toothpastes here

This post was brought to you by Colgate.