subject: Nourish Your Smile With Good Nutrition [print this page] Many of the foods that help your body build strong muscles and bones also help build strong, healthy teeth and gums. With the help of a well-balanced diet, you may be able to prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease (gum disease). Your dentist may be the first person to discover potential nutritional imbalances.
Poor nutrition affects the entire immune system, thereby increasing your susceptibility to many disorders. With a lowered immune system, people have been shown to have a higher risk for gum disease. Additionally, research shows that there is a link between oral health and systemic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Eating a well-balanced diet will not only improve your overall health, but also your dental health.
Plan Your Diet Accordingly
Develop eating habits that follow recommendations from reputable health organizations, your dentist and from five major food groups. In addition, always keep your mouth moist by drinking water and always consult your dentist when you are not sure about how your diet may affect your oral health.
Important minerals and nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy:
Calcium: Your teeth and jaws are made up of mostly calcium and without the proper amount of calcium in your diet you may develop gum disease and tooth decay. You can find calcium in foods and liquids such as, milk and dairy products, beans, broccoli, nuts and oysters.
Iron: Found in foods such as red meat, bran cereals and some nuts and spices, without iron you can exhibit tongue inflammation and mouth sores.
Vitamin B3 (niacin): To boost your B3 levels, eat chicken and fish because without B3 you may experience bad breath and canker sores.
Vitamins B12 and B2 (riboflavin): Mouth sores can develop with a lack in B12 and B2. Eat red meat, chicken, liver, pork and fish, as well as dairy products like milk or yogurt to boost your levels.
Vitamin C: A deficiency in vitamin C may lead to bleeding gums and loose teeth. Sweet potatoes and oranges are great sources.
Vitamin D: Building strong bones and teeth are aided by vitamin D. Low vitamin D can lead to burning mouth syndrome, which includes a burning mouth sensation, a metallic or bitter taste in your mouth and mouth dryness.
Foods that lead to Tooth Decay
Plaque accumulates on the teeth which are caused from bacteria that thrive off of the sugars and starches that are found in many foods you consume. With time, plaque produces an acid which attacks your tooth enamel, resulting in decay. Any foods and drinks that contain a lot of sugar can cause damage to teeth as the presence of sugar in the mouth accelerates decay. With that being said, limit your intake of sugary items, like candies, cakes, sodas and cookies. If it is not good for your body, then it's probably not very healthy for your teeth either.
While eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks or drinks that are high in sugar are good ways to prevent cavities, a good dental regime is essential in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing regularly in addition to visits to your Mooresville dentist will help in maintaining your oral health.
