Tips for a Diet That Promotes Healthy Teeth

Of course we all know that a healthy diet is good for our body, but did you know that what you eat affects your teeth, as well? Here is a list of simple ways you can improve your oral health is paying close attention to your diet.

brushing and flossing are vital for maintaining healthy teeth, but what you eat and drink in between your daily cleansing ritual also plays an important role in your oral health.

plaque - an invisible, sticky film of bacteria - coats your teeth regularly. When starches and sugars present in many foods come into contact with this bacteria, acid is produced. The acid breaks down the enamel that protects teeth out, and over time can cause tooth decay.

If you choose your foods wisely, you can reduce the amount of acid that attacks the teeth. Here are some diet tips for keeping your teeth healthy:

Limit foods and beverages that are high in sugar, like cookies, candy and soft drinks -. Remember, even unsweetened fruit juices are high in sugar

Read the packaging label to find out how much sugar is included, and make educated decisions in purchasing products.

Limit dried fruit, which are sticky and keep your teeth -. Instead, eat fresh fruit, especially apples, which serves as a natural tooth cleaners

Avoid snacks between meals -. But if you must snack, replace sugary treats with crackers, cheese, yogurt, nuts, and celery or carrots, which produce less acid

If you do not drink sweet liquids (soda, sports drinks, juices), avoid drinking slowly over a long period of time, because it extends the period of acid attacks the teeth.

If you regularly drink coffee or tea, to reduce or eliminate sugar.

If your children snack at school, be sure to have access to healthy snacks (vegetables, fresh fruit, cheese) instead of the packaged foods that are high in sugar.

If the occasional sweet treat snack, brush your teeth afterwards to reduce the effect of acid - if you're not near a toothbrush, rinse with water or chew a piece of sugar gum to stimulate saliva, which helps to clean teeth.

Your diet also affects your overall health, which helps determine how well your body can fight off infection. If you are not getting certain nutrients, the tissue in the mouth may not be as robust, leaving you more prone to periodontal (gum) disease.

If you have any questions about your diet and its impact on oral health, please contact us. We will be happy to guide you toward healthier eating habits.