Contrary to popular belief, oral hygiene involves more than just brushing and occasional flossing. When it comes to the health of your teeth, what you eat and drink, is very important. The point is, your diet might be the difference between a healthy tooth and an unhealthy one. Healthy food is a prerequisite for healthy teeth and gums and for preventing tooth decay.
In this guide, you will also discover the types of food you can include in your diet to keep dental problems at bay.
How does food impact your teeth?
The food you eat and the beverages you drink come in direct contact with your teeth. Hence, these impact your tooth enamel and, ultimately, the occurrence of tooth decay. Tooth decay is a common oral health problem, and the good news is that tooth decay is entirely preventable.
Best foods for your teeth
Knowing the best types of food for your teeth is your first step to good dental hygiene. Here are the best types of food for your health:
Almonds
Almonds are not just beneficial for your teeth but your entire oral health. Almonds are high in calcium, a mineral that your body needs to maintain strong and healthy teeth and bones. Additionally, the major factor contributing to bad breath is the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. The good news is that almonds help scrape the plaque on your teeth as you eat them.
Factors leading to tooth decay occur when plaque builds up under the gums on the root of the tooth. This eventually breaks the bones that support the tooth. Hence, almonds do not promote tooth decay, unlike sugar-heavy foods.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens and green teas promote oral health by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria that are associated with tooth decay. Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, and kale are rich in phosphorus, calcium, and vitamin D. These play a strong role in promoting healthy and strong teeth.
Yogurt
Yes, yogurt is good for your teeth. Yogurt helps strengthen your teeth because, like other dairy products, they contain calcium which keeps your gum safe and reduces acid in your mouth. The dental bacteria that cause cavities require an acidic environment in the mouth to thrive. However, yogurt adjusts the pH of this environment to a level that it becomes uncomfortable for them to thrive, hence keeping these bacteria away from your mouth.
Apples
You already know that an apple a day keeps the dentist away and that a healthy mouth is a well-hydrated mouth.
Apples stimulate saliva production and flow, which benefits oral health in many ways. The scrubbing power of apples helps remove plaque. Their hydrating power helps neutralize acids and wash away sugars and food particles that might lead to tooth decay. So, the next time you feel that midday sluggishness, why not skip the coffee and opt for an apple instead?
Carrots
Carrots are naturally enriched with beneficial Vitamins. The vitamin A in carrots helps get rid of tartar and combats plaque invasion. Also, carrots have high fiber levels, which prevent gum disease and other dental health issues.
Worst foods for your teeth
Alcohol
Alcohol in any form is high in sugar and acidity, so it has the tendency to break down the enamel. This leads to tooth decay and other periodontal diseases. Red wine and similar drinks have been associated with causing long-lasting teeth discoloration and other dental health issues.
Alcohol decreases free saliva flow, thereby allowing bacteria to adhere to the enamel and increasing the chances of tooth decay.
Sugary sweets and candies
Sugary sweets and candies are bad for your teeth. Bacterial plaque uses sugars to make acids that ultimately affect your enamel. Hence, sugary sweets and candies have a direct correlation to tooth decay.
Carbonated drinks
Carbonated soft drinks, whether regular or sugar-free sodas are acidic in nature, so they attack the teeth enamel too. Hence, they may cause enamel erosion and even dental caries. Hence, excessive consumption of carbonated soft drinks could result in complex dental erosion and caries.
Dried fruits
It has been discovered that dried fruits are sticky in nature, so they may damage the teeth in the long run. Ensure to properly rinse your mouth with water and brush and floss carefully after eating dried fruits.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar and other acidic foods and drinks are acidic due to high levels of citric acid and acetic acids. Hence, they may increase the vulnerability of teeth to decay due to dental erosion. Additionally, apple cider vinegar may increase the sensitivity of the teeth.
Conclusion
For good oral health, you need to keep these tips in mind when choosing your diet. Additionally, starchy foods such as potato chips are also harmful to the teeth.
Complete dental health goes far beyond brushing your teeth and flossing. You also need to adopt a healthy eating lifestyle so that your smile stays bright and beautiful all day and night.
At Nexus Dental, we are a dedicated team that provides both superior general and cosmetic dental care using advanced dental technology. Feel free to check out our diverse range of dental services in Indian Trail, NC and book an appointment with our skilled professionals.
