How Your Diet Affects Your Teeth: Foods to Eat and Avoid for Better Dental Health

Consuming a healthy diet is not only essential for keeping your body healthy but also impacts your oral health. At Ateeth Dental Care, we encourage our valued patients to be mindful of their diet to lower the risk of dental disease and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Sri and her patient-centered team look forward to laying the foundation for healthy smiles that last a lifetime. 

Your Diet and Your Dental Health

Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet provides your gums and teeth with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. Poor dietary choices, on the other hand, can significantly increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. Research shows that gum disease can advance faster in patients with poor nutrition. 

With over 90 percent of adults in America who have had at least one cavity and more than 50 percent dealing with periodontal disease, it’s never been more critical to adopt a smile-healthy diet. Dr. Sri and her team at Ateeth Dental are here to provide you with personalized care and guidance to keep your smile healthy and sound. 

What Foods Support Healthy Teeth?

Here is a look at some choices that promote healthy smiles: 

• A Balanced Diet: Vary your diet, making sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean proteins. A balanced diet will ensure your teeth and gums have the essential vitamins and minerals they need to stay strong and healthy. 
• Crunchy Fruits and Veggies: If you’re in the mood for a snack, consider opting for an apple or some celery. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are nature’s toothbrushes, gently removing plaque from your teeth and helping promote a healthier smile. 
• Calcium and Phosphorus-Rich Foods: Dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, fish, and eggs are excellent sources of calcium and phosphorus. These essential minerals help protect and rebuild your tooth enamel, safeguarding your smile.
• Water, Water, Water: Drinking plenty of water throughout your day helps keep your mouth hydrated, lowering your risk of dry mouth. Water also helps flush away food particles and debris, neutralizes acids in your mouth, and increases saliva production, keeping dental disease at bay. 

What Are Foods and Beverages You Should Limit?

The following are foods to limit or avoid altogether: 

• Sugary Foods and Beverages: Sugary foods and drinks offer an abundant food source for harmful bacteria that feast and produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, leading to decay. Candy bars and cupcakes aren’t the only culprits—even cough drops and fruit juices may contain plenty of sugar, putting your smile at risk.  
• Starchy or Sticky Foods: Sticky foods or candies tend to stick to and linger in the pits or crevices of your teeth, elevating the risk of tooth decay. Starchy foods like white bread and potatoes can break down into sugars, providing a feast for harmful oral bacteria. 
• Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, such as sodas, citruses, and pickles, can erode the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay and sensitivity. If you consume something acidic, make sure to rinse your mouth right after to help neutralize the acids.
• Dried Fruit: Dried fruit is often mistaken for a healthy snack, but it can be harmful for your teeth. The sticky, chewy texture and high sugar and acid content can elevate the risk of tooth enamel erosion, cavities, and gum disease.
• Hard food or Candies: Biting on hard candy or ice or using your teeth as tools can lead to chips or fractures. Hard foods continue to be a leading cause of dental emergencies requiring prompt care. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Reston, VA

At Ateeth Dental Care, we are proponents of prevention to maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Sri and her team are always happy to provide personalized tips and guidance to lower the risk of dental disease. We also offer comprehensive preventive services tailored to your unique needs. We strive to ensure our valued patients maintain long-term healthy smiles. We invite you to call 571-446-4060 or visit us online to book an appointment today!