Hippocrates said it best: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Good health starts with smart and healthy food choices. What we eat affects everything from our internal health to the glow of our skin and fullness of our hair as well as the strength of our teeth. Making daily efforts to stay healthy will reduce or eliminate medical expenses while also promoting a positive mood and outlook.
According to mouthhealthy.org, “tooth decay happens when plaque comes into contact with sugar in the mouth, causing acid to attack the teeth.” Therefore, consuming high-sugar foods increases your teeth’s vulnerability to decay and infection. It’s important to make keeping sugar intake to a minimum a lifelong habit.
Other than eliminating sugar, what additional steps can you take today to prevent future dental problems?
Eat a varied diet.
For teeth to remain strong, they need a rich source and constant supply of minerals and vitamins. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, legumes, and nuts and seeds in your diet. Pumpkin seeds, in particular, are a great source of phosphorus, which plays a vital role in strengthening bones and teeth.
Supplement.
If you’re on a restricted diet, you should consider supplementing or being aware of your calcium, vitamins A, B12, K, D, and A. Dark leafy greens are a great source and are easily added to smoothies or soups.
Limit grazing.
When we snack multiple times throughout the day, we overwork our mouth’s production of saliva and promote a constant stream of acids and sugars on our teeth. Not allowing your mouth to rest in between meals increases your risk of cavities.
For more tips on what you can do to prevent tooth decay, contact us for a consultation. We are happy to discuss your options and help you build the ideal preventative plan for your lifestyle.