September is Teeth-safe Food Month! Food is one of the most significant parts of our lives and affects our health in countless ways. Your oral health is no exception! Knowing which foods are good and which are destructive for your teeth is critical to keeping your smile healthy and bright.
Cavities, one of the most well-known dental problems, can be directly related to what we eat. One of the most common causes of cavities is refined sugar consumption. Refined sugar is broken down by bacteria and turned into acid, which in turn dissolves the tooth enamel. Because of this, the frequency of sugar consumption is actually more detrimental to your oral health than the amount of sugar you consume in one sitting. So what are some of the best ways to still enjoy your favorite sugary treats while keeping your teeth safe?
- Avoid having sugar in your mouth for an extended time. Some examples of this are soda and candies you suck on, such as lollipops. If you want to enjoy a sugary snack, a quick dessert like a piece of cake or pie is much better. When you are eating something quickly, the saliva in your mouth will be hard at work washing the debris away.
- Eat sweets at a time you know you will brush soon afterward. Most people will brush their teeth pretty soon after eating a meal. Therefore, this is one of the best times to consume a sweet treat. If you are snacking on sweets at a random time during the day, you are less likely to brush until later, and the sugar will have more time to sit on your teeth and will be more likely to damage them.
- If you want to snack, find substitutes! Many delicious snacks are much better for your teeth than candy and sweets but can still satisfy your cravings for something tasty! Try snacking on berries or yogurt – they are both sweet and good for your teeth!
Having a healthy, balanced diet is very important to your oral health. Not only will the right foods keep your teeth safe, but they will also keep your gums and bones in top shape. Finding foods you enjoy that are also rich in vitamins is essential. Luckily, this is not difficult to do! Foods containing vitamin C, vitamin B12, folic acid, and calcium are some of the best options for strong teeth and healthy gums. Here are some of our favorites…
- Citrus. Whether you prefer fresh-squeezed orange juice or peeling and eating a clementine, citrus is delicious, rich in vitamin C, and perfect for keeping your soft mouth tissue healthy.
- Dark green leafy vegetables. When people think of calcium, they usually think of milk. However, certain leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are chock full of calcium and will keep your teeth strong.
- Meat. Meats such as chicken and fish are versatile and delicious. You can’t go wrong with either because there are so many ways to cook and season them! In addition to this, they contain vitamin B12, which is great for keeping your gums healthy.
- Beans, seeds, and nuts. These three foods have endless uses and can enhance many meals. They also contain folic acid, which will strengthen the supporting soft tissue in your mouth.
- Dairy. Saving the best for last! Dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt will kill two birds with one stone. They contain both calcium and vitamin B12, which are beneficial to the health of your gums and teeth!
Food allergies are common, especially when it comes to things like nuts and dairy. Fortunately, though, the foods listed above are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to food that enhances oral health. You have endless options and will never get bored! Making sure you eat a variety of foods with the above vitamins and minerals will heighten your oral health and increase your general well-being. We can give you plenty of tips on our blog, but it’s always better to come to see us in person! Give us a call today at 972.640.7564 to schedule an appointment!