Taking care of your teeth and gums isn’t just about brushing and flossing. It’s also about what you eat and drink. Your diet plays a huge role in keeping your smile healthy, especially during stressful times when it’s easy to let good habits slide. Dr. Sal Lotardo and his team are here to help you stay on track with your oral health.
Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums in great shape, along with a few extra pointers to help you make the best choices for your smile:
Avoid Sugar (But Don’t Stress Too Much)
We all know sugar isn’t great for our teeth. The bacteria in your mouth love sugar just as much as you do. These bacteria feast on the sugar in sugary foods or drinks. Then they produce acid that contributes to tooth decay and cavities.
The key is moderation. It’s okay to enjoy a sweet treat now and then, but make sure to clean your mouth afterward. Brushing your teeth is ideal. If that’s not possible in the moment, rinse with water or chewing sugar-free gum. Do your best to wash away leftover sugar and protect your teeth.
And don’t forget that fruit is healthy, but it’s also high in natural sugars. Whether you’re munching on candy or an apple, it’s important to take care of your teeth afterward to avoid decay.
Dairy Is Your Smile’s Best Friend
Milk, cheese, and yogurt aren’t just good for your bones, they’re great for your teeth too! These dairy products are packed with calcium and protein. Calcium helps strengthen your teeth and keep your enamel strong.
Yogurt, in particular, has an extra benefit. It’s a probiotic food, which means it helps promote good bacteria in your mouth. The good bacteria can crowd out the bad bacteria that cause decay and give your oral health a double boost.
Load Up on Veggies
Vegetables are a powerhouse of nutrients that your body and your smile need to stay healthy. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in folic acid, a nutrient that can help reduce tooth decay. They’re also high in calcium, which strengthens your teeth and bones.
Crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers are especially great for your teeth. Their high water content helps wash away sugar and bacteria. Their crunchy texture scrubs your teeth as you chew, like a natural toothbrush. Plus, they’re low in calories and high in fiber. It’s a win-win for your overall health.
Stay Hydrated with Water
Water is the best drink for your teeth and your body. It helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, keeps your mouth moist, and prevents dry mouth. Drinking mostly water every day can prevent bad breath and keep tooth decay at bay. If your tap water contains fluoride, even better! Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from cavities.
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks can wear down your enamel over time and make your teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity. Eat these foods in moderation:
- Citrus fruits and juices such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
- Carbonated soft drinks, including diet sodas
- Coffee and tea
- Wine
- Pickles and pickled foods
- Tomatoes and tomato-based products like pasta sauce
- Vinegar and vinegar-based dressings
- Sour candies and sweets
If you do enjoy these foods, try to rinse your mouth with water afterward. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging your enamel.
Don’t Forget Protein
Protein-rich foods like lean meats, fish, eggs, and nuts are great for your oral health. They contain phosphorus that works with calcium to strengthen your teeth and bones. Plus, chewing tougher foods like meat can stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps protect your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away food particles.
Snack Smart
Snacking throughout the day can increase your risk of cavities. Especially if you’re reaching for sugary or starchy foods. Choose something tooth-friendly like cheese, nuts, or raw veggies if you need a snack. These options are less likely to stick to your teeth and cause decay.
The Bigger Picture
As you’ve learned, your diet affects your teeth and your overall health too. A balanced diet full of whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of water can help prevent gum disease, reduce inflammation, and even lower your risk of health conditions.
Your diet is a big part of keeping your smile healthy, but it’s not the only factor. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to catch any issues early and keep your teeth and gums in top shape. If it’s been a while since your last visit, don’t wait to call Bella Smiles today.
Remember, small changes to your diet can make a big difference for your oral health. By making smart choices and taking care of your teeth, you can enjoy a healthy, confident smile for many years.
If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, you can reach our Nesconset office at (631) 228-8780, our Riverhead office at (631) 574-3898, or our Roslyn office at (516) 217-6668.