Diet and Dental Health: What to eat and what to avoid?

You probably know that guzzling soda and sugary Starbucks Frappuccinos aren’t good for your dental health. But how much thought do you give to the effects of your diet on your teeth? Practicing healthy eating habits isn’t just helpful for your waistline; it also ensures that your teeth stay strong and cavity-free.

How does diet affect dental health?

Our team at Arbor View Dental Group will tell you that your mouth is a complicated place on a microbiological level. Harmful bacteria form dental plaques that convert food sugars to acids, which wear away at tooth enamel. Meanwhile, saliva washes away some of these detrimental acids, while minerals work to rebuild teeth where they are damaged. According to our trusted dentist in Roseville, your diet is crucial in managing this delicate balance between harmful bacteria and the helpful agents that support tooth remineralization.

Rethinking your diet to prevent cavities

Carefully considering your dietary choices is a smart way to become mindful of your foods and how they affect oral health.

Foods to eat

• Calcium– and phosphorus-rich foods. We’ve all heard that milk builds strong bones and includes your teeth. Milk, cheese, nuts, and chicken are strong sources of calcium and phosphorus. Dentists use these minerals to repair damage to the teeth’s enamel.
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables– Biting into an apple stimulates saliva flow, which washes harmful acids from the surface of your teeth. To increase saliva production, turn to other crunchy fruits and vegetables, including carrots, celery, pears, and lettuce.
• Sugar substitutes– If you have a sweet tooth but want to decrease decay, sugar substitutes such as Stevia or Equal provide a sugary kick without harming your teeth.

Foods to avoid

• Sugary snacks- Cookies, cakes, candies, and other sugary treats provide a feast for the acid-producing bacteria in your mouth. Furthermore, these foods often stick in the ridges of your teeth and create a breeding ground for new bacteria.
• Acidic fruits and vegetables– Foods high in acidity, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, berries, peaches, and lemons, wear away the enamel of your teeth. Because these foods can be part of a healthy diet, remember to brush after eating them or swish with a mouth rinse to protect your teeth.

Eating well is essential for keeping teeth healthy. Consult the doctor about your diet for tips on food habits that keep your teeth strong and cavity-free. For more information about the link between your diet and your oral health or to schedule an appointment with the doctor, please visit our convenient Roseville dental office in California!