subject: Eat Properly To Protect Your Teeth In The New Year [print this page] As the New Year is right around the corner, you may be thinking of your New Years resolution. This year instead of just exercising for a healthy you, why not eat properly to protect your teeth from damage? While many people don't realize it, what you eat directly relates to your oral health. If you want to maintain a healthy smile, not only is it important to practice proper dental hygiene, but also it is important to pay attention to what foods you eat and how often you eat them. Bacteria in the mouth convert sugars and carbohydrates from the foods you eat to acids, and the acids then begin to attack the enamel on teeth, starting the decay process. Your dentist in Spring is available to help you establish a proper diet in order to further protect your smile.
Establish a Proper Diet
You can improve your oral health and reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease by eating a well-balanced diet based on the well-known food pyramid. It is recommended that eating a variety of foods from the five major food groups-grains, fruit, vegetables, milk and meat-are highly important. Vitamin and mineral supplements can also help in the preservation of periodontal health in addition to the boosting of overall health and well-being. Your dentist in Spring, TX and your family physician can help you determine a healthy diet for your individual needs.
By eating in moderation and variety you can develop eating habits that follow the recommendations of various reputable health organizations to protect your oral health as well as your overall health. Avoid fad diets that limit or eliminate entire food groups, which results in vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Additionally, always keep your mouth moist by drinking water because your saliva protects both hard and soft oral tissues. When you have a dry mouth, substitute your diet with sugarless candy or gum to stimulate your saliva.
How Often Should I Eat?
When teeth are repeatedly exposed to foods and beverages, the chance for decay greatly increases. Eliminating foods high in starch or sugar won't always be possible, so try to eat them during meals rather than between meals.
To reduce the time teeth are exposed to these factors, it's important to:
*Avoid continuous snacking and sipping of drinks;
*Allow time between meals for saliva to neutralize acids and repair the teeth
*Avoid brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods, drinks, citrus fruits and juices
*Avoid eating right before bedtime
It has long been known that good nutrition and a well-balanced diet is one of the best defenses for maintaining your oral health. While choosing healthy foods and drinks are good ways to prevent tooth decay, daily oral hygiene should still remain an integral part for achieving healthy teeth and gums. Visit your Spring dentist for regular checkups and cleanings as they can help to detect early signs of decay.
