Did you commit to taking better care of your smile this year? Are you determined to make it to December without a single cavity? If so, you may have already vowed to brush and floss your teeth daily. You may even have scheduled your six-month dental checkups and cleanings. If you really want to enjoy great oral health, though, it is best to also eat a well-balanced diet and to drink lots of water, as these are other crucial aspects of keeping your teeth and gums in good health!
Your Diet Plays an Important Role Too
Though often overlooked, a person’s diet also has a major impact on his or her oral health. That is because the teeth, like the rest of the body, need nutrients to remain strong. A diet filled with fruits and vegetables, plus lean proteins, dairy products, nuts and healthy fats can help provide your body with the nutrients needed to maintain great health. Of course, what you don’t eat can be just as important.
Sugar is a leading culprit in the development of cavities, because plaque bacteria feed on sugars. When your diet is high in sugar content, it leads to acidity that can begin to erode the enamel of your teeth, eventually leading to the need for restorative dentistry like dental fillings.
To prevent this, check the food labels while grocery shopping. If a product is high in sugar content, it will likely be bad for your teeth. Keep in mind that added sugars are particularly problematic, so when reading labels, if sugar (including dextrose and corn syrup) is one of the first ingredients, it’s best to choose an option with less sugar. Even seemingly healthy foods like granola bars and sports drinks can be incredibly high in sugar content, so make sure to check the labels.
Regular checkups and cleanings are also essential to keeping the mouth healthy, but a healthy diet can help minimize how much cleaning is necessary.
