It’s no secret that food significantly impacts the health of your teeth and gums. They tend to either make them healthier or further lower their strength. While eating everything in moderation is completely okay, excessive intake of specific foods can harm your teeth in the long run. So, instead of looking for our dentist near you at the last moment or when it’s inconvenient, practicing proper oral healthcare is best to preserve your smile and prevent problematic conditions.
The relationship between oral health and general health is very strong. Many bodily health issues, including the
- Heart disease: Studies have revealed a connection between heart disease and gum disease. Bacteria and inflammation from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and aid in plaque formation in the arteries.
- Diabetes: Gum disease is more likely to affect diabetics, and gum disease can make it harder to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Infections of the respiratory system: When bacteria in the mouth are breathed into the lungs, illnesses like pneumonia can result.
- Pregnancy complications: Gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight during pregnancy.
- Alzheimer’s disease: Some research has revealed a connection between a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease and poor oral health.
Poor dental health can also impact a person’s quality of life, leading to discomfort, difficulties speaking and eating, and social shame. Proper dental hygiene and dentist visits prevent and treat oral health issues.
According to the Canadian Dental Association, here are some of the best and worst foods for oral health.
Best Foods:
Dairy items:
Milk, cheese, and yogurt are dairy items high in calcium for healthy teeth and bones. Moreover, they have casein and phosphorus, which aid in balancing the mouth’s damaging acids.
Leafy greens:
Foods rich in minerals and vitamins that support healthy teeth and gums include kale, spinach, and collard greens. Folic acid, believed to promote healthy gum tissue, is also present in them.
Fruits and vegetables with a crunch:
Apples, carrots, celery, and other crunchy produce aid in tooth cleaning and encourage salivation, which is necessary for rinsing away bacteria and neutralizing acids in the mouth.
Nuts and seeds:
Nuts and seeds are good sources of vitamins and minerals. They also promote salivation, which can aid in washing away acids and safeguard teeth.
Worst Foods:
Sugary and acidic drinks:
Soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices frequently contain high concentrations of sugars and acids, which can wear down tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Sticky sweets:
Sticky treats like caramels, candies, and other sweets can adhere to teeth and encourage the development of dangerous bacteria.
Starchy foods:
Potato chips, bread, and other starchy foods can adhere to teeth and serve as havens for bacteria.
Alcohol:
Since alcohol dries out the mouth, the likelihood of developing gum disease and tooth decay increases. This is due to the vital role saliva plays in maintaining dental health by aiding in removing microorganisms. Bacteria stick to the enamel when you have a dry mouth or are dehydrated, which raises your chance of developing tooth decay.
See Our Dental Hygienist in St. Albert!
Looking after your dental hygiene in St. Albert is now easier than ever! At Dentus Family Dental, our dental hygienist, Courtney, ensures you and your family have the most comfortable and convenient dental appointment. Contact us to get the best oral healthcare from our dentist near you.