Tips for your diet to improve your oral health

Diet plays a significant role in oral health. What you eat has an impact on your teeth, gums, and overall dental and General health.  You should select your food wisely not only for general health but also for oral health. Here’s a breakdown of how different foods and diets can impact dental health:

Nov 14

1. Sugary Foods:

• Impact: Sugar promotes bacteria growth, leading to plaque formation and acid production that can erode enamel, causing cavities.
• Advice: Limit sugary snacks and drinks. When consumed,  drink water and/or ensure proper oral hygiene afterwards. You should avoid sticky sugary food like lollipops, caramels, etc. that remains on teeth for a longer time and destroy the teeth easily.

2. Acidic Foods:

• Impact: Acidic foods and drinks (citrus, vinegar, cola, juice, etc.) can erode tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay.
• Advice: Consume these foods wisely, for example, you can eat fresh fruit instead of juice which is more acidic and full of sugar. Moreover, please rinse your mouth with water after eating/drinking them.

3. Calcium-Rich Foods:

• Impact: Calcium is vital for tooth and bone health, strengthening enamel. For instance, dairy products can be very beneficial. Cheese can promote saliva production. The calcium present in cheese and the calcium and phosphates in dairy products can restore the minerals that your teeth might have lost because of eating acidic foods.
• Advice: Incorporate dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods for a healthy dose of calcium.

4. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables:

• Impact: Foods like apples and carrots can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, aiding in natural cleansing.
• Advice: Enjoy these foods as they can be beneficial for oral health.

5. Hydration:

• Impact: Water is crucial in maintaining oral health. It helps rinse away food particles and keeps the mouth hydrated. Furthermore, water can neutralize the mouth’s atmosphere, especially after eating/drinking acidic food.
• Advice: Drink water regularly, especially after meals, to wash away food debris and maintain saliva production.

6. Protein-Rich Foods:

• Impact: Proteins contribute to healthy gum tissue and aid in tissue repair.
• Advice: Include sources of lean protein like poultry, fish, beans, and nuts in your diet.

7. High-Fiber Foods:

• Impact: High-fiber foods promote saliva production, aiding in natural cleaning and protecting against decay. Having fibre-rich fruits and vegetables can be your top natural protection against cavities and gum disease.
• Advice: Integrate whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to benefit from their dental health advantages.

8. Water and Fluoride Intake:

• Impact: Fluoride, often found in water and dental products, helps strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay.
• Advice: Ensure adequate fluoride intake through water sources or dental products to protect your teeth and gum.

It is crucial to avoid substances that can dry your mouth and reduce your saliva generation. These substances include alcohol and many medications. If medicines are the reason behind dryness in your mouth, talk to us at Distinct Dental Centre and get the right kind of help. Using sugar-free chewing gum can help to increase saliva. Please do not forget to brush and floss regularly as nothing can substitute regular cleaning and visit us if you have any questions or concerns.

You can find more information regarding the relationship between oral health and diet; here

If you have a special medical condition, when you come to see us at Distinct Dental Centre please let us know so provide you with more information according to your health condition.