How Eating Healthy Affects Your Dental Health and Total Health
We all have heard that nutrient-rich food greatly benefits your physical well-being and bodily function, but did you know it is also vital for your dental health? Let’s take a closer look at how what you put in your mouth affects your mouth!
Strong enamel is the hallmark of healthy teeth. Enamel acts as a protective barrier, shielding the sensitive layers of your teeth from harm. While enamel is a very strong substance, certain foods can cause your enamel to decay over time. Foods with high acidity levels, such as fruit or soda, can gradually wear away your enamel. Furthermore, sugary foods are proven to increase the plaque on your teeth that causes enamel to weaken and decay. This process is called acid erosion, and once this erosion happens, it cannot be reversed. However, there are many ways to protect your enamel from decay! Choosing foods that are high in calcium, like cheese, greens, and fish, can strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth. In addition, fluoride treatments strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay.
It is common knowledge that eating nutrient-rich food is beneficial for your physical health and well-being, but it also can do wonders for your dental health! Greens, lean meats, and whole fruits and vegetables give your teeth and gums the vitamins and strength it needs. There are specific nutrients that give your mouth what it needs to stay strong and healthy. Some of these include calcium, phosphorous, potassium, and Vitamins A, C, D, and K. Seafood, legumes, whole grains, and vegetables are just a few of the many foods containing these essential vitamins.
Just as healthy foods can positively affect your dental health, poor food choices can equally harm your dental health. Foods that are high in sugar, specifically added and refined sugar, cause plaque build-up and cavities. Particularly sticky foods can get stuck in the pits of your teeth, making it difficult to brush out and, in turn, can cause decay and cavities. As previously discussed, acidic foods can wreak havoc on your enamel, which cannot be reversed.
It is important to remember that the mouth is the first step in your body’s digestion and absorption process. It is crucial to keep this part of your body healthy and high-functioning so that it can set your digestive system up for success. When you prioritize your oral health, you’re prioritizing your bodily health as a whole. In addition to watching your eating habits, regular dental visits are imperative for your health. Schedule an appointment with us to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy!