Brushing, flossing, and oil pulling are all critical components to maintaining strong oral hygiene, but did you know that the types of food that you eat can also positively influence your dental health? From cheese and yogurt to apples and almonds, specific food choices can support your other oral hygiene habits and keep your teeth and gums protected from bacteria, decay, and disease.
Why Does Food Matter to Dental Health?
The instant that food enters your mouth, changes start to occur. If the foods you eat are rich in sugars and carbohydrates, they are immediately converted into acids, and those acids begin attacking the teeth and triggering decay. By swapping highly processed, sugar-laden foods with fresher, more nutrient-dense options, you can prevent a number of dental problems and even encourage your teeth and gums to remain as healthy as possible.
Crunchy Foods With High Water Content
Crunchy foods that contain extra water are excellent for your teeth. The continual chewing required by foods like apples, carrots, cucumbers, and celery actually stimulates the production of more saliva in your mouth. Since saliva is a natural neutralizer of cavity-causing bacteria, chewing crunchy foods will counteract dangerous bacteria and keep your teeth safe from decay. Of course, the high water content of these foods also help your teeth.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C and D
We all know that vitamins are great for the body, but they are essential to the mouth as well. Vitamin C keeps your gums healthy by reducing inflammation, strengthening blood vessels, and preventing your gums from becoming sensitive. Vitamin D, meanwhile, helps your body more efficiently absorb calcium, and the importance of calcium for the teeth should never be underestimated. Bell peppers, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, fish, and eggs are all excellent sources of these vitamins.
Choices With Calcium and Phosphorous
Calcium and phosphorous are the core building blocks of enamel, the white protective layer that keeps your teeth strong and healthy. Eating foods rich in calcium and phosphorous, like yogurt, cheese, milk, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and lean red meat will replace minerals in your teeth and prevent them from becoming eroded.
Best of all, when you choose these types of food to nourish, protect, and strengthen your mouth, you also improve the overall health of your body. Dr. Beata A. Carlson and Associates at Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry in Clearwater, Florida are here to answer all of your questions, evaluate the health of your mouth, and recommend the best strategies to ensure your lasting dental health. Call 727-888-6523 to make your first appointment at Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry today.
