What you eat affects more than your weight. It also has an influence on your mouth. In fact, the American Dental Association works with public health leaders to recommend a diet that will preserve both your bodily and overall health. It is important to recognize the best foods to eat.
Mouth-Friendly Foods and Beverages:
If you want a healthy smile, the best foods to add to your diet are cheeses, meat, chicken, nuts, and milk. Since these items contain calcium, they protect your teeth and help remineralize the enamel. Vegetables high in calcium include spinach and broccoli as well.
Crunchy fruits are smart choices to add to your diet. Apples and pears are rich in water, which means that they will stimulate saliva production. This helps to wash away foods, buffer acids, and protect against decay. It is wise to avoid snacks and foods like potato chips, bananas, raisins, and breads. These contain high levels of sugar that stick on teeth and fuel bacteria growth.
With every meal, you should drink water. It is best to avoid sugary and acidic drinks, including soda. This beverage can erode your enamel. Drinking coffee, tea, and wine may stain your teeth as well.
What Sweets to Choose:
When you need a touch of sweetness, look beyond sugar. Sugar substitutes line grocery store shelves and provide a wonderful taste without feeding bacteria in your mouth. Also, chewing sugarless gum can benefit your teeth. Besides helping to dislodge food from crevices, it encourages saliva production.
There is a strong link between what you eat and your oral health. The above tips should help preserve your beautiful smile. For more information, consult with your dentist. Dr. Dana Walters is ready to help you plan the most tooth-friendly snacks and meals so that your oral health is maximized.
