We all know that healthy teeth require regular teeth cleanings and consistent homecare with daily brushing and flossing. But just like other tissues of the body – teeth and gums also require nutritive support to keep them in optimal health.
Oral Health and Nutrition have a synergistic bond that impacts both the short and long-term wellbeing of the mouth and body. Oral and Systemic Diseases are affected by nutritive food values – with poor nutrition influencing the development and progression of diseases. Sugar is not only your body’s worse enemy but a destructive force to teeth. When residual sugars (both natural and added) linger on tooth surfaces they become the energy and sustenance for oral bacteria; which eats sugary debris – breaking them down, which in the process releases acids that destroy tooth enamel and irritate oral tissues.
SE Calgary Dentists at South Trail Crossing Dental encourage patients to make smart dietary choices and limit food and drink that contain high sugar content. The impressive marketing by manufacturers of sport and energy drinks may give the impression that there isn’t a downside to consuming regular and large amounts of these ‘health’ drinks. But the reality is that a typical bottle can contain upwards of 19 grams of added sugar – a fantastic energy boost for an athlete that has sustained over sixty minutes of activity – but for the average person a considerable amount of added calories and decay forming sugars.
Limiting sugary drinks and foods reduces the risk of developing dental decay and gum disease. Snacking on fiber-rich fruits and veggies help stimulate saliva flow which in-turn helps to rinse away food particles and clean teeth – it also helps to neutralize tissue eroding acids. Think apple slices, celery and carrot sticks the next time you need a snack.
Drinking plenty of water – instead of reaching for a sports drink or sugary juice – will not only hydrate your body quickly but control your exposure to added sugars and unwanted calories. Don’t forget to include in your diet foods rich in Vitamin D and calcium – as teeth require these nutrients for both development and protection.
For more information regarding Healthy Eating for Oral Health or to schedule an appointment, contact South Trail Crossing Dental today 403.720.2778