Looking after your teeth and gums means more than regular brushing and flossing. What you choose to eat and drink is just as important, not only for the quality of your smile but your overall health as well.
Choose These Foods for Great Oral Health
Your oral health and overall wellbeing are closely linked, so it’s important to choose a diet that’s good for both. Plenty of fresh whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, healthy protein and fats, and whole grains can provide you with all the nutrients you need to keep your body and your teeth in good shape. A nutrient-rich diet is also important for good gum health and helps keep gum disease at bay.
When snacking, choose low-sugar snacks, and try to limit the amount you enjoy each day. Every snack provides food for oral bacteria, which then produces plaque. To prevent this, you can choose healthy low-sugar snacks such as vegetables, fruit, or cheese, and rinse with cool water after snacking.
It’s also best to avoid foods that are very chewy, such as taffy, as these can be difficult to remove even with brushing. You should also avoid chewing ice, as this habit puts the teeth at risk of fracturing.
Choosing Healthy Beverages
The drinks you choose can have just as much impact on your oral health as the foods you eat. To keep your teeth in great shape, try to avoid sugary drinks, carbonated beverages, and alcohol. All of these can have a negative impact on your teeth, and increase your risk of cavities.
Clean water contains no sugar, no carbonation, and does not stain your teeth. If you choose tap water you'll also get the benefit of fluoride, but if fluoridated water isn’t available you can always choose bottled water. You may also want to consider seeing your dentist to find out if you or any other family members might benefit from fluoride supplements.
Other good options include milk and fresh low-sugar juices. Tea and coffee are fine in moderation, but it’s best to avoid adding too much sugar to these beverages.
With these tips at your disposal, you improve your chances of long-term oral and overall health. For more information on prevention and diet tips, or to schedule a consultation, call Dr. Richard Silvera today!