A healthy smile not only looks brilliant, it also contributes to your overall well-being. Plaque and tartar left unchecked will degrade your enamel, making ways for damaging cavities to take root. Cavity-ridden teeth cannot only damage your health, but can also contribute to unrelenting pain. Bleeding gums and bad breath are other negative consequences of neglected dental care. If you want to make sure your smile is bright and your teeth are strong, integrate these tips into your health regimen:
Foods to avoid
A diet rich in healthy foods supports optimal function of your body. A diet that includes sugary sweets and processed foods will degrade the quality of your health, potentially leading to serious consequences such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay. If you want strong tooth enamel, you will definitely want to curb your addiction to food overloaded with sugar and drinks that use the addictive substance as a major ingredient.
“Limit eating sugary foods and drinks. These foods allow the bacteria in the mouth to thrive as it feeds on sugar. Foods that are high in acid should also be eaten in moderation to protect your teeth. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, peaches and pineapples, cheese and some other dairy foods, fish, fresh and processed meats, nuts and seeds are all high in acid,” notes TheOrthodontists.com.
Foods to add to your diet
Calcium is lauded for its ability to strengthen bones, and it is also a vital mineral in helping your teeth stay strong. A diet that includes foods and drinks that boast this bone-bolstering nutrient can be a great way to bolster the strength of your teeth.
“While calcium is produced within the teeth naturally, this important mineral is stripped by acids and bacteria over time. You can replace calcium by eating calcium-rich foods,” explains Kristeen Cherney, Ph.D and writer for Healthline.com. “If your diet is deficient in calcium, talk to your doctor about possible supplementation.”
Another conversation you may want to have with your doctor is about how to add Vitamin D to your diet and whether a multivitamin is right for you, she adds.
Health care to-dos
Daily brushing, especially after you eat a meal, sugary treat, or other acidic food, is imperative to keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Flossing, too, is essential so you can remove hidden morsels of food that — if left to stay — would damage your enamel and cause discomfort to your gums. Be sure you visit the dentist for regular cleanings, especially if you are dealing with pain or an issue. With regular visits, you and your dentist can get ahead of serious problems so you can avoid a painful or damaging situation like deep cavities, root canal, or tooth removal.
Another professional who can help you keep your teeth strong is your primary physician. They may be able to address conditions that impact your mouth health.
“If you have heartburn or acid reflux, see your doctor or take an over the counter medication to relieve the symptoms and protect your teeth by stopping stomach acid from entering your mouth,” advises TheOrthodontists.com.
These tips will help you prioritize your dental care and help strengthen your beautiful smile.