Woman eating an apple

Did you know proper nutrition is good for your teeth, gums, and overall dental health?  Here’s all you need to know about the link between nutrition and a healthy mouth.

Eating nutritious foods can make you feel better, boost your energy, and help you maintain a healthy weight. But did you know that a nutritious diet also helps protect your teeth, gums, and your oral health overall? There’s a direct relationship between the foods we eat and our teeth and oral tissue condition. Proper nutrition can be the key to keeping your teeth healthy and strong for a lifetime.

Why Nutrition is Essential to Your Dental Health

Cavities, tooth loss, and gum disease are some of the most common dental problems. These issues are often painful oral problems that affect millions of people each year with 50% of adults showing at least some signs of gum disease.

Like the rest of your body, your teeth and gums need certain nutrients to develop properly and remain strong throughout your life. Along with proper brushing and flossing, the right diet helps prevent infection, tooth loss, and gum disease.

What to Eat to Maintain Oral Health

Most people understand that sugary foods can lead to tooth decay, but they can also cause other conditions like acid reflux. Eating a variety of tasty, nutrient-rich foods provides everything you need for optimum oral health:

  • Calcium-rich foods like yogurt, cheese, fortified soymilk, and low-fat or fat-free milk help build strong teeth and bones. Tofu, almonds, canned salmon, and some dark green leafy vegetables are also high in calcium.
  • Vitamin C is easily obtained from eating citrus fruits, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.
  • Phosphorus, found in fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, lean meats, and beans, promotes strong teeth.

Does protecting your teeth mean having to pass on snacks? No, you just want to choose smart snacks! Instead of eating hard or sticky candy, snack more frequently on popcorn, mixed nuts, and unsalted trail mix. Skipping the sugary sodas and drink plenty of water also helps. Unfiltered water not only detoxes your body but also contains fluoride, making it one of the most tooth-friendly beverages you can drink.

Quality Dental Care for a Healthy Mouth and Body

In many ways, your mouth is the pathway to a healthier body. Having regular checkups with your dentist can reveal nutritional deficiencies, general infections, and cavities. Though studies continue, the link between oral and your overall health is generally accepted. That’s why it’s essential to talk with your dentist about any changes in your diet, dental quality, or overall health.

The professional team at Kanehl Dental Group cares about your overall health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a regular cleaning and to get an oral health exam. We’d also be happy to provide more dental tips and suggestions for keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright! In the meantime, eating a balanced diet and limiting sugary snacks can reduce your risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.