September is Teeth-safe Food Month! Food plays a critical role in our lives and is directly linked to our health. This includes our oral health! Collecting knowledge regarding which foods are helpful and which are dangerous for your teeth is an important part of keeping your smile in top shape.
What To Know During Teeth-Safe Food Month
Cavities are often caused by what we eat and are one of the most common oral problems. Refined sugar is one of the most common causes of cavities. It is broken down by bacteria and turned into acid, which in turn dissolves the tooth enamel. The frequency of sugar consumption is actually more dangerous for your oral health than the amount of sugar you eat because of this. So what are some of the best ways to enjoy your favorite sugary treats while keeping your teeth safe?
- If you want to snack, find substitutes! Many delicious snacks are much better for your teeth than candy and sweets but can still satisfy your cravings for something tasty! Try snacking on berries or yogurt – they are both sweet and good for your teeth!
- Avoid having sugar in your mouth for an extended time. Some examples of this are soda and candies you suck on, such as lollipops. If you want to enjoy a sugary snack, a quick dessert like a piece of cake or pie is much better. When you are eating something quickly, the saliva in your mouth will be hard at work washing the debris away.
- Eat sweets at a time you know you will brush soon afterward. Most people will brush their teeth pretty soon after eating a meal. Therefore, this is one of the best times to consume a sweet treat. If you’re snacking on sweets at a random time during the day, you are less likely to brush until later, and the sugar will have more time to sit on your teeth and will be more likely to damage them.
A balanced diet will positively impact your oral health. The correct foods will keep your teeth healthy while also keeping your gums and bones strong. Finding foods you like that are rich in vitamins is essential, and is not that difficult to do! Foods containing folic acid, calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin C are some of the best options for the health of your teeth and gums. Here are some of our favorite options…
- Meat. Meats such as chicken and fish are versatile and delicious. You can’t go wrong with either because there are so many ways to cook and season them! In addition to this, they contain vitamin B12, which is great for keeping your gums healthy.
- Dark green leafy vegetables. When people think of calcium, they usually think of milk. However, certain leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are chock full of calcium and will keep your teeth strong.
- Beans, seeds, and nuts. These three foods have endless uses and can enhance many meals. They also contain folic acid, which will strengthen the supporting soft tissue in your mouth.
- Dairy. Dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt will kill two birds with one stone. They contain both calcium and vitamin B12, which are beneficial to the health of your gums and teeth!
- Citrus. Whether you prefer fresh-squeezed orange juice or peeling and eating a clementine, citrus is delicious, rich in vitamin C, and perfect for keeping your soft mouth tissue healthy.
Food allergies are unfortunately quite common, especially when it comes to nuts and dairy. The foods listed above are only a few of the options for foods that are healthy for your teeth. You will never get bored with the countless options available! Making sure you eat a wide range of foods with the above vitamins and minerals will benefit your oral and general health. We can give you plenty of tips on our blog, but it’s always better to come to see us in person! Give us a call today at (903) 567-2207 to schedule an appointment! Enjoy a pain-free wisdom teeth recovery by reading these tips and tricks.