Many people don’t realize it, but taking care of your oral health can have a major impact on your overall health and well-being. It can also significantly improve the quality of life you lead.

Diet and Nutrition

Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. These factors can influence the onset and advancement of dental diseases, such as decay, gum disease, enamel loss, etc.
 

Nutrition encompasses the vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats required by our bodies. On the other hand, diet is the specific type of food we consume to get these nutrients. The link between diet and nutrition, as well as oral health, is a two-way street. You see, poor oral health can reduce your ability to consume food as well.

The Link Between Diet and Oral Health

Eating the wrong kinds of foods can be detrimental to your oral health. High amounts of carbohydrates, sugars, and starches lead to plaque acids that can damage your tooth enamel over time. This can cause enamel breakdown and create cavities if left unaddressed.
 

Aside from dental problems, poor nutrition can also lead to avoidable systemic diseases. These include stress, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, and more.

Three Common Mouth-Healthy Food

As per the American Dental Association (ADA), it’s important to maintain a good diet for optimal oral health. A nutritious food list can be beneficial for improving your diet and ensuring healthy teeth and gums. Here are some of the best food choices to include in your diet:
 

• Cheese: Recent research shows that the consumption of cheese can actually be beneficial to oral health. A 2013 study published in the American Academy of General Dentistry journal revealed that cheese increases pH levels in the mouth and helps prevent tooth decay. Eating cheese is believed to help increase the production of saliva, which then helps protect teeth. Additionally, cheese provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein that can strengthen your tooth enamel.
   

• Leafy Greens: Leafy greens are a must-have in any diet as they boast a variety of health benefits. Not only do they provide essential vitamins and minerals, but they’re also low in calories. Another bonus is that consuming leafy greens such as kale and spinach helps promote oral health. They’re high in calcium, which helps build the enamel of teeth. Folic acid, a type of B vitamin, is also found in abundance in leafy greens. It has a range of health benefits, including potentially helping pregnant women with gum disease.
   

• Apples: The ADA generally discourages the consumption of sugary foods, but fruits like apples are an exception. They contain not only natural sugars but also various nutrients like fiber and water. Eating an apple can stimulate saliva production, thus washing away any bacteria and food that remain in your mouth. Besides, not only is the fruit’s fibrous texture enjoyable, but it can help keep your gums healthy too.
   

Other options that promote good oral health are yogurt, carrots, celery, and almonds.
 

As the adage goes — you are what you eat. To protect your teeth from cavities and maintain excellent oral hygiene, what you consume and how often are critical factors. Make the right dietary changes now with our experts from Riverview Dental in Corunna, Michigan. Call us now at 989-743-4851 to request an appointment.