Ever heard of the common saying “You are what you eat”? Well, so are your teeth. The state of your teeth and oral health is largely influenced by the quality and content of the foods you consume. There is a direct relationship that exists between your diet, oral health and subsequently your general wellbeing.
Oral diseases like dental caries, gum disease and tooth wear lesions are strongly linked to specific food types and how frequently you consume them. Eating foods rich in nutrients across the diverse food groups aid in the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums and prevention of these avoidable diseases.
How your Diet Affects your Teeth
Sugary foods and foods that contain a lot of simple sugars can cause tooth decay. Foods that stick to your teeth also stay on your teeth longer and are difficult to remove, making your teeth susceptible to acid damage. Frequent snacking also exposes your teeth to more bacteria and acids, also increasing your risk for developing dental caries. Acidic foods like lemons, grapefruits and oranges wear out the outer layer of your teeth changing its color and appearance, a condition known as dental erosion.
The Best Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth
Foods and drinks rich in calcium and phosphorus protect your teeth by strengthening the tooth enamel (the outer layer of a tooth) reducing the risk of developing caries. Nutrient rich foods, a balanced diet and foods rich in Vitamin C are also essential for healthy gums and developing a robust immune system to fight against infectious oral diseases. Foods like cheese, milk, chicken and lean meats and green leafy vegetables fit this category.
If you are looking to improve your oral health, practicing these eating habits will go a long way:
-Avoid sugary foods and drinks as they strongly encourage cavities forming in your teeth. Limit the sugary treats today!
-Choose whole grains over refined grains. Foods like oat meal, wheat bread, brown rice are more nutritious and are less likely to cause caries.
-Sugar free chewing gum can have a cleansing and acid neutralizing effect on your teeth by producing more saliva in your mouth. Gum containing xylitol is recommended.
-Avoid frequent snacking especially in between meals and even if you snack frequently brush your teeth afterwards or at least rinse your mouth to get rid of remnant food particles
-A balanced diet is the way to go for healthier teeth. Choose well rounded meals that include fruits, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, proteins and legumes as they are essential to maintaining good oral health.
-Reduce intake of colored drinks and beverages that have a tendency to stain your teeth. Coffee, tea, beverages, red wine, berries can stain your teeth when consumed excessively.
-Drink water! Water is an excellent source of essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, fluoride that make your teeth stronger.
While the foods and drinks you consume play a significant role in determining the state of your dental health, good oral hygiene practices such as twice daily brushing with fluoride containing toothpaste, regular dental checkups and cleaning, and flossing work together to produce optimum oral health.
Your teeth are a reflection of your dietary choices and oral hygiene practices. Eating the right foods and adopting the appropriate habits will produce a significant impact on your oral health.
Photo credits: KRB Dentistry, Dental Group of Lubbock