Routine oral hygiene and visits to the dentist are important for every individual; however, the role of a patient’s diet shouldn’t be underestimated. At Alpha Dental Centre, we provide patients with comprehensive preventive and restorative dental care and have created this guide to help them understand which foods are best for their dental health.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
Many foods directly damage the healthy structures of teeth facilitate the growth of oral bacteria that cause decay. The following foods should be avoided, due to their immediate or indirect effect on dental health:
Sugars: Oral bacteria feed directly off of sugars. Foods such as candy and even some fruits have a great enough concentration of sugar that bacteria begin to grow at a much greater rate, and create acids as a by-product. While the mouth is naturally acidic, too high of a concentration leads to damaged enamel.
Sticky Foods: Certain foods are so sticky that they cling to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, well after you are eating. If patients are unable to brush after meals, these leftover food particles significantly increase the chances of decay.
Acidic Foods: As previously mentioned, too much acid damages the enamel. Foods that are high in acids, such as certain citrus fruits and dairy products, weaken the enamel. Even foods that are low in sugar, like diet sodas, are high in acid and likely to damage the teeth.
The Best Foods for Your Smile
While there are many foods that can damage the health of teeth, others can significantly enhance overall dental and physical health. These foods should be eaten on a regular basis to achieve long-term wellbeing.
Vegetables and Grainy Bread: Most vegetables are highly fibrous, low in sugar, and create a scrubbing effect when chewed, cleaning teeth. Dense, whole breads that are made from a number of grains, without being heavily processed, also help sweep away bacteria.
Water: Saliva is necessary to maintain lowered levels of harmful oral bacteria. A dry mouth, whether due to medication or a natural predisposition, should be addressed as soon as possible. One of the best ways to prevent dry mouth and decrease the risk of tooth decay is to drink plenty of water.
To keep your smile strong, maintain a healthy diet while sticking to regular and positive oral hygiene habits. For professional cleanings and restorative services, contact Dr. Bojan Majstorovic and our team at Alpha Dental Centre.