You likely already know that proper brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly are the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of disease. However, did you also know that the health of your teeth depends on what you eat more than anything else? A healthy diet can strengthen your teeth from within, even more than any toothpaste or mouthwash.
Eat your way to a healthier smile in 2020 by consuming foods that give your body the nourishment you need.
The foods you choose and how often you eat them can quickly affect your overall health and the state of your teeth and gums, too. Consuming too many sugar-filled sweets and foods that lack nutritional value puts your smile at risk for tooth decay.
Foods that contain sugars of any kind can be a contributing factor to tooth decay. Controlling the amount of sugar you consume by reading the nutritional facts and ingredient labels on the foods and beverages you choose can help you to make better choices that are low in sugar. The most common sources of sugar in the diet include soda, juice, candy, cookies, and pastries. By learning which foods are high in sugar and which foods are best for you can enable you to swap out the bad for the good and make better choices.
Pomegranates are commonly known for containing free-radical fighting antioxidants in addition to being an excellent source of vitamins C and E. Pomegranates have also been proven to increase the amount of oxygen sent to the heart, promote healthy circulation, and to reduce the potential for blood clotting. These powerful fruits are filled with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to break down harmful bacteria that lead to tooth decay, inflammation, and gum disease.
Both green tea and black tea provide your teeth with incredible benefits. Along with small amounts of caffeine, tea contains compounds that fight disease-causing bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, by limiting the acids these bacteria eat. Green tea has been proven to reduce the symptoms of periodontal disease. Research has shown that drinking three cups of green or black tea daily can prevent tooth decay and promote excellent oral health.
The sugar that is added to most chocolates does enable the growth of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease. That being said, chocolate in its raw form, cacao, is one of the most powerful foods we can consume. We are not recommending that you attempt to strengthen your enamel just by eating chocolate; however, using the power of cacao to help clean your teeth can be an excellent addition to your oral health regimen.
Dairy contains high concentrations of minerals that work to promote bone health and strong teeth. Drinking milk or eating cheese and yogurt can help you consume your daily recommended dose of calcium and phosphorous. Dairy also contains a protein called casein that builds a protective barrier on tooth enamel than can aid in resisting bacterial acids that lead to tooth decay.
Sticking with a healthy and balanced diet can give your teeth the extra boost they need to resist tooth decay and keep gum disease at bay. Providing your body with the nutrients it needs can have a significant impact on both your oral and overall health. By eating a balanced diet and having excellent oral hygiene habits, you will soon be on your way to your healthiest year yet!
For more questions regarding how the foods you eat impact your oral health, schedule an appointment with Hoffman Dental Care today!
