Everyone knows the importance of brushing and flossing as part of a good oral healthcare routine, but the role food and drink play in keeping our mouths healthy is often understated. Your oral health is intrinsically linked with the diet you consume, with nutrition, vitamins and minerals contributing towards healthy teeth and gums. It can also help reduce your chances of developing oral diseases, tooth decay, gum disease and other issues. All of these problems can impact the types of food you can enjoy, creating additional limits on potential nutrition.
As part of a holistic lifestyle, dentists recommend a balanced diet consisting of nutrient-rich foods. However, some nutrients are more important to your oral health than others. In this blog, we will cover dentist-recommended foods and drinks, in addition to what foods you should avoid, as part of your oral healthcare strategy.
Dentist-Recommended Nutrients and Foods
Calcium
Calcium is commonly recognised for its ability to fortify strong bones and enamel. This makes it a vital part of any balanced diet for those who care about their teeth. Most people know that dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are rich sources of calcium. However, do not discount leafy greens such as kale and broccoli, as these are equally good and plant-based sources of calcium. Additionally, fish with small edible bones, such as sardines, and some nuts and seeds, such as almonds, make excellent sources. Eating any of these will help keep the protective enamel on your teeth strong.
Protein
You should never neglect to include protein as part of a balanced diet. When it comes to your teeth, protein provides one of the essential building blocks for the creation of dentin. Dentin is the hard, yellowish tissue that forms the bulk of the tooth, lying below the enamel. Protein can be sourced from meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, seeds and nuts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a key role in promoting gum health, orchestrating a crucial role in collagen synthesis. This makes fruits such as oranges, strawberries, grapefruits, kiwis and others packed with vitamin C instrumental in maintaining healthy gums. The vitamin acts as a protective shield, warding off potential gum-related issues such as gum disease.
Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
While vegetables in general are valued for their nutrient and mineral density, crunchy ones have a specific value. Their crisp texture acts as a natural dental cleaner, helping to clear away plaque and food residue. This can help with dental cleanliness and can contribute to overall oral health.
Water
While not a food, water deserves a special mention as a means to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Staying hydrated is essential in maintaining good oral health, so drinking the recommended amount of water each day should not be overlooked.
Foods to Avoid as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle
In life, everything is about balance. While it is fine to have a treat once in a while, it is important to do so in moderation. Here are the foods to limit for the sake of your oral health:
Added Sugar and Acidic Foods and Drinks
Sugar plays a major role in feeding the bacteria in plaque, which produce acids that wear down teeth and cause decay. This risk increases the more acid and sugar attacks your teeth undergo. Consuming sugar is also a contributor to gum disease, which itself is linked to illnesses like heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Starchy Foods
Foods like bread, potatoes and pasta contain natural sugars that can contribute towards tooth decay. Whole grains are more nutritious and harder for the bacteria in plaque to break down.
Looking For Dietary Advice To Help Your Teeth?
Our friendly dentists at Goldfields Family Dental can provide tailored advice to help you take care of your teeth holistically. We’re based in Kalgoorlie and are open 7 days a week. Get in touch with us online or call 08 9000 3514 today.