The term oral health refers to the health of your teeth, tongue, gums, and bones surrounding the mouth, and throat. Oral health problems may negatively affect an individual’s ability to smile, speak, touch, taste, swallow, chew, and express emotions. Since there is a link between nutrition and oral health, it’s good to learn which foods and beverages impact your teeth and gums.
The Connection Between Diet and Dental Health
When an individual’s diet lacks the nutrients the body needs, it's difficult for the body to fight off infections. So, a poor diet increases the risk of developing gum disease (aka periodontal disease).
Some vitamins support gum health (e.g. A and C). Therefore, eating a balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, provides support for our natural defense mechanisms. Thus, helping prevent the development of dental diseases.
The Cycle of Decay
Sugar is the main reason cavities form. The bacteria in the plaque consume the sugar and release an acidic byproduct that dissolves the surface of the teeth (i.e., the enamel). Once the acid compromises the enamel, bacteria can enter the tooth. It is at this point that the cavity (aka a carie) begins to develop.
Issues that affect the progression of decay:
- How often an individual eats
- The type of food being eaten (e.g., sticky or solid)
- The combination of foods an individual eats and the order they are eaten in
- The nutritional makeup of the food
- Medical conditions
- Oral Diseases
Which Foods Increase the Risk of Tooth Decay?
There are certain foods that immediately affect our teeth. Sugary foods and carbohydrates are the biggest culprits. However, acidic foods, carbohydrates from sugars, savory foods, and starches can also cause tooth decay.
Foods to avoid or limit:
- Acidic foods: Oranges, grapefruits, and tomatoes
- Sugary beverages: Soda, sweetened coffee, and tea
- Candy: Hard candies, sour candies, and chocolate
- Sweets: Cakes, cookies, and muffins
- Snack foods: Potato chips, pretzels, and tortilla chips
Sugars from these foods can adhere to your teeth, increasing the likelihood that you'll develop a cavity.
Avoid Soda, Sports Drinks, and Hard Candy
Carbonated soft drinks are acidic. Therefore, if you tend to sip your drinks and eat foods that are high in sugar, the likelihood of developing a cavity increases.
Caffeinated beverages dry out the mouth. During the time between snacks and meals, saliva helps wash away the food debris. Thus, interrupting the cycle of decay. A dry mouth doesn’t have the saliva necessary to wash away food particles.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Nearly 20% of the adult population has periodontal disease. If you have any of the symptoms below, contact Liberty Family Dentistry and a Bloomington dentist can help you restore your dental health.
Symptoms of gum disease:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Halitosis (i.e., foul-smelling breath)
- Pain while chewing
- Gingival tissue (i.e., gums) pulling away from the teeth
- Pus between the teeth
- Loose teeth
- Dental prosthesis no longer fits (e.g., dentures)
- Gums bleed while brushing or flossing
- Misalignment of teeth
Reducing Your Risk of Tooth Decay
If you do consume high-risk foods or beverages, rinse your mouth out with plain water or milk. Doing this could cancel out the acids, reducing the likelihood of damaging your enamel.
Are There Any Foods That Are Good for Dental Health?
Yes!
Foods that are high in vitamin D and calcium strengthen tooth enamel:
- Plain yogurt
- Milk
- Cheese
Crunchy vegetables and fruits can trigger saliva production to help clean the teeth:
- Carrots
- Celery
- Apples
Foods high in phosphorus help protect tooth enamel:
- Fish
- Poultry
- Tofu
Seeds and nuts are full of nutrients. They are also low in carbohydrates.
The best drink for teeth is water because it helps clean the mouth by removing food debris and washing bacteria away. In addition, fluoridated water can help prevent cavities.
Obviously, neglecting your oral hygiene increases your risk of developing cavities. Make sure to brush and floss daily to remove plaque from your teeth. Get the most out of your oral hygiene by brushing your teeth after eating. Rinse with water after drinking coffee, tea, soda, sports drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
If you're looking for a dentist in Bloomington, contact Liberty Family Dentistry today at 812.732.0680. We are located at 1550 Liberty Drive in Bloomington, Indiana. Our staff and dental professionals aim to provide each patient with high-quality care in a friendly and welcoming environment.