Did you know that, in addition to impacting your general health, your diet can play a significant role in your overall dental health? For example, consuming a high number of sugar-laden foods and beverages can often lead to concerns such as cavities and tooth decay. Furthermore, eating foods that lack key nutrients may decrease your mouth’s ability to prevent and/or fight infection, potentially contributing to gum disease and possibly eventual tooth loss.
So what can you do to help diminish your risk of developing these dental concerns through dietary means? The following are a few tips to keep in mind when you find yourself hungry or thirsty:
- Limit your consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar. If you’re unsure, check out the nutrition label on the product’s packaging.
- Eat a balanced assortment of foods from the five main food groups. These include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and dairy.
- Drink lots of water. As a key source of hydration, water is essential for virtually all functions of your body.
In addition to heeding this advice, it’s important to always brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day, as well as visit the dentist for routine checkups and teeth cleanings approximately every six months. By doing so, you can help ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy, and if any issues are detected, they can be addressed in a timely fashion.
For more information, or if you would like to schedule an appointment at our office, please feel free to contact us today.
