We’ve all heard the common proverb “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But did you know this applies to the dentist too? The key markers of oral care don’t just relate to brushing and flossing, but they also include diet choices.

Nutrition has a significant bearing on our oral health because choosing the right foods can stop oral diseases from developing and progressing. Keep on reading to discover the connection between nutrition and dental care, and what we can do to maintain our oral health from the experts at Shelby Dental.

The Role of All Sugary and Acidic Foods

Consuming excess sugar and acidic foods such as citrus fruits can cause cavities and canker sores. There are many foods that contain sugar, like candies, cookies, and other processed foods, but there are also some common healthier foods that aren’t too good for oral health.

For example, many fruits, which are highly acidic, can be detrimental to oral health, no matter how good they are for our overall health. The acid in fruits, like apples, wear away our enamel- the substance that protects our teeth from cavities and infection. While you may not actually want to eat an apple a day because of the acid content, cutting it into slices for a snack a few times a week is a great option. Drinking plenty of water and brushing your teeth after eating fruits or other acidic foods can help wash away these acids before they can do any damage.

Some common food and drinks to limit to maintain proper oral care include:

• Carbonated soft drinks
• Hard candy and sweets
• Sticky foods
• Sports drinks
• Alcohol
• Ice
• Coffee
• Citrus fruits

Why Nutrition Is Important for Your Dental Care

Our dental health is directly related to our overall well-being and quality of life. Proper oral care can ward off any bacteria, infections, and other diseases from spreading in the body. And, many dental problems, like canker sores and cavities, are related to improper nutrition. Let’s take a look at some foods and beverages that boost dental health and your well-being.

Foods that contain calcium such as milk and cheese can help build tooth enamel and put minerals back into your teeth. Crunchy vegetables and fruits like carrots are, of course, healthy for our bodies, but they also play their part in washing away food particles from our tongues, teeth, and gums.

Some of the best food and drinks for maintaining your oral health include:

• Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables (raspberries, mangoes, bananas, etc. )
• Cheese, milk, yogurt, and other dairy products
• Water
• Eggs
• Fish
• Green and black tea
• Foods with fluoride (grapes, spinach, potatoes, etc.)

Combine Nutrition & Proper Dental Care

As beneficial as it is to floss and brush our teeth with the right techniques, we have to understand that nutrition is the fundamental component of our oral health. Without a healthy diet and lifestyle, you have a greater risk of cavities, canker sores, and other oral conditions. To avoid these preventable dental diseases and maintain your beautiful smile, combine nutrition and oral care for optimal results. You can start by keeping up with your 6-month dental checkups, and asking your dentist about other foods that promote dental health.

Maintain and Protect Your Smile at Shelby Dental Center

If you want to minimize the likelihood of cavities, canker sores, and other problems, the best work is done outside of the dentist’s office with a healthy and realistic attitude toward oral care. You can do wonders for your pearly whites by prioritizing your nutrition!

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, don’t fret. Our team at Shelby Dental strives to provide a stress-free, comfortable, and relaxing environment, to ease any dental anxieties or fears. We look forward to providing knowledgeable advice, support, and treatments to help you maintain your oral health. Make sure proper nutrition, brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings are a part of your dental care routine.

Shelby Dental Center Cares About Your Dental Health

Maintaining proper oral hygiene and diet can help ensure not only your dental health but your overall health as well. With 25 years of experience and same-day denture services, we can tackle almost any dental problem. If you have any questions about your nutrition for dental health or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today at 205-235-5859!