Did you know that your diet plays a large role in your oral health? Certain foods can wreak havoc on your smile while others can help it flourish! Read on to learn more about how certain foods can impact your smile.
Foods That Can Be Harmful to Your Smile
Any foods that contain a large amount of sugar can have a negative impact on your oral health. When sugar reacts with plaque on teeth, it creates an enamel-eating acid that weakens the tooth. When you consume too much sugar, you increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. You don’t have to get rid of sugar in your diet altogether. We just recommend that you consume sugar in moderation. After you eat a sugary treat, make sure to rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth to help prevent an acidic reaction and enamel erosion.
In addition to avoiding high-sugar foods, we also recommend being mindful of these foods.
- Acidic foods which can wear away tooth enamel
- Sticky foods that can get caught between teeth
- Tough/hard foods that can damage teeth
Tooth-Healthy Foods That Protect Your Smile
First and foremost, don’t forget to drink plenty of water! When the body is hydrated, the mouth produces enough saliva to help naturally clean your teeth and gums. Also, make sure you are eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are jam-packed with vitamins that promote tooth and body health. Need recommendations for foods you should be incorporating in your diet to boost your oral health? Here are some awesome tooth-friendly foods that you should add to your everyday diet.
- Cheese
- Fruit
- Leafy greens
- Meat
- Nuts
- Vegetables
Quality Dental Care in Columbia, SC
Questions about your diet and how it directly affects your oral health? Our friendly team is happy to answer them. Bethea Family Dentistry offers a wide range of services to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Please contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.