Discover how your dietary choices can impact not only your general health but also the long-term well-being of your teeth and gums, and learn practical tips for maintaining a healthy diet and dental hygiene
Your body functions like a sophisticated machine, and the choices you make regarding food and eating habits have a significant impact on both your overall health and the well-being of your teeth and gums. Excessive consumption of sugar-laden sodas, sweetened fruit drinks, or nutritionally deficient snacks can put you at risk of tooth decay. Fortunately, tooth decay is entirely preventable.
Tooth decay occurs when plaque in the mouth comes into contact with sugar, leading to acid attacks on the teeth.
Any food containing sugars, regardless of the source, can contribute to tooth decay. To manage your sugar intake, it is important to read nutrition facts and ingredient labels on food and beverages and opt for options with the lowest sugar content. Common sources of dietary sugar include soft drinks, candy, cookies, and pastries. Seeking advice from your physician or a registered dietitian can also help you adopt a nutritious diet. Insufficient nutrients in your diet may weaken the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to infections, including gum disease. Severe gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and researchers believe that poor nutrition can worsen the progression and severity of the disease.
For personalized dietary recommendations, you can visit ChooseMyPlate.gov, a website provided by the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The site offers guidance on suitable diets for children and adults based on their levels of physical activity.
To promote both general health and dental well-being, it is essential to be mindful of your choices before eating or drinking. It's not just about what you consume, but also when you consume it, as timing can influence your dental health. Adopt a well-balanced diet and limit snacking between meals. If you have dietary restrictions, consider the advice given by your physician when selecting foods.
To maintain good dental health, keep the following tips in mind when planning your meals and snacks:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Consume a variety of foods from the five major food groups, including:
- Whole grains
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Lean sources of protein, such as lean beef, skinless poultry, fish, dry beans, peas, and other legumes
- Low-fat and fat-free dairy products
- Control your snack intake. If you do snack, choose healthy options like fruits, vegetables, or a piece of cheese. Consuming foods as part of a meal is less harmful to your teeth compared to frequent snacking throughout the day. During a meal, saliva production increases, helping to wash away food particles and counteract the effects of acids that can damage teeth and cause cavities.
To ensure good dental health, remember to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste bearing the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, floss daily, and regularly visit your dentist. Through consistent dental care, your dentist can help prevent oral issues from arising and detect any problems in their early stages when they are easier to treat.