Mindful eating and healthy choices can not only improve your waistline; they can improve your oral health. Your mouth is the first stop for the food entering your body. Bad choices make a big impact on your mouth’s health. Sugary food and drinks lead to cavities. The bacteria in your mouth feeds on sugar and carbohydrates to create acid. The acid erodes the enamel decaying the teeth. Dark sodas, coffee, and tea can stain the teeth. Sticky food can cause problems for any restorations. One wrong bite with food that is too crunchy can lead to a cracked or chipped tooth. We know the problematic foods, but what food and drinks are good for our oral health?
Water. Water. Water.
Unflavored, non-carbonated water is good for your teeth and gums. Water keeps your saliva production high. Saliva rinses away any potentially harmful bacteria. Drinking plenty of water keeps you hydrated. It also keeps your teeth clear of food and drink residue.
Cheese and yogurt
Cheese raises the pH balance in the mouth, which lowers the risk for harmful acid. Cheese and yogurt both contain protein and calcium, which are important for strengthening enamel. Yogurt (without added sugar) contains probiotics or good bacteria. The good bacteria can outnumber the bad bacteria which can lower the risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
Fruits and veggies
Chewing your fruit and veggies is more healthful than drinking the juice. For example, an apple is full of water and fiber. The act of chewing will produce a lot of saliva. The fibrous nature of the apple will stimulate the gums and kind of act like a toothbrush. Fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins A and C can help strengthen the gums.
Good food choices can protect your mouth
Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris can educate you on good oral health. To schedule a consultation at Mansfield Dentist Associates in Mansfield, TX, call (817) 473-6227. We treat patients from the Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas
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