A healthy diet is an integral part of your oral and overall health. Dentists know this better than anyone, which is why you often see them on TV promoting new toothpastes or gums with the catchy slogan “4 out of 5 dentists recommend.” While these products are important, your everyday eating habits also play an essential role in the health of your teeth and gums. Choosing the right foods and eliminating sugary snacks will help keep your mouth strong and bright.
Most people understand that sugary foods and drinks like candy and soda are detrimental to oral health. But many people don’t realize that other types of foods, such as fibrous vegetables and protein-rich nuts, are good for oral health. Additionally, drinking plenty of water is an important part of a healthy diet. Water helps wash away food particles, encourages saliva production and washes away acids that can eat away at tooth enamel.
Dentists often recommend these foods to their patients because they are rich in calcium and other nutrients that promote healthy teeth and gums. They also tend to be low in sugar and other acidic components that can cause tooth decay. Dentists might also suggest chewing food slowly to help aid digestion and stimulate saliva production, which can be helpful in preventing gum disease.
Another important consideration when deciding what to eat is the timing of your meals and snacks. Frequent snacking, especially on sugary or acidic foods and drinks, can expose your teeth to a continuous assault of harmful substances and increase your risk for cavities. Dentists might suggest limiting snacking between meals or choosing healthier snacks such as yogurt or fruit to minimize the risk of tooth decay.
Many dentists also recommend consuming dairy products like yogurt and cheese because they are rich in calcium and other minerals that promote oral health. These minerals work alongside phosphate to strengthen teeth and prevent bacterial buildup that can lead to cavities. Dairy products can also encourage saliva production and wash away acids that can erode tooth enamel.
Additionally, dentists might advise consuming dark leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale because they are high in fiber, which helps prevent gum disease. These vegetables are also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, which is necessary for bone health.
Finally, many dentists may recommend consuming foods that are high in protein to support bone and gum health. Lean proteins like chicken and fish provide a great source of protein, as well as zinc, magnesium and other nutrients that are crucial for bone and gum health. If you’re unsure how to properly brush your teeth, we encourage you to consult with a Torrance dentist for guidance.
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