Brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but did you know that diet also plays a major role in oral health?
Some nutrients can promote the development of cavities or tooth sensitivity, while others strengthen dental health. Before your next trip to the supermarket, it may be worth knowing which foods and snacks are better for your teeth than others.
Table of Contents
Worst Foods
Best Foods
Worst Foods
Let’s start by delving into the foods we should avoid and the reasons behind this.
1. Sticky Sugars
Sweet treats such as caramels, lollipops, and gummy bears attach to the teeth, allowing bacteria to release acids that degrade the tooth structure and provoke cavities.
Tip: Avoid these refined sugars altogether or brush your teeth well immediately after to remove any piece of leftover candy that might be stuck to your teeth.
2. Citrus Fruits
The acidity of freshly squeezed orange or lemon juice may deteriorate your teeth’s enamel in the long run. This tooth surface erosion causes sensitivity to cold and hot foods and may lead to extreme discomfort.
Tip: Do not brush your teeth right after eating or drinking citrus fruits because you will spread the acidity through the mouth; instead, rinse with water to neutralize the pH.
3. Starchy foods
Although chips, white bread, and pasta do not taste sweet, they all contain refined carbohydrates that break down into sugars. So it is important to remember that not only sweet-tasting products can cause cavity formation but also salty snacks.
Tip: Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates.
4. Sodas
Carbonated drinks are a combination of evil and worse, given that they contain both excessive amounts of sugar as well as phosphoric and citric acids, which can weaken tooth structure if consumed in large quantities.
Tip: Use a straw or similar to citrus fruits; it is recommended that you rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and wait for 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
From Acidic to Alkaline for Optimal Dental Health.
5. Alcohol
Increased alcohol consumption is known to lead to dehydration, which can subsequently result in a dry mouth. Saliva typically functions as a protective lubricant for our teeth and the surrounding structures. When there is a deficiency, we are more likely to be exposed to cavities and gum disease.
Tip: Drink 3 liters of water per day, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
Mme Liza Bartley
Dental Hygienist. Dental Geneva, Central Geneva.
Best Foods
… So what can we eat !?
1. Dairy Products
Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all rich in calcium and phosphate, which are key in protecting the mouth from acidity and allowing the remineralization of the teeth.
Tip: Avoid sweet and flavored yogurt or milk, because they will have the opposite effect due to the added sugars.
2. Vegetables
Vegetables also contain minerals mentioned previously that allow for the countering of the effects of demineralization.
Fiber in vegetables can sometimes make them hard to chew. However, this is a natural toothbrush that can remove some plaque buildup and increase mouth lubrication due to increased saliva production.
Tip: Always include veggies!
3. Nuts
Nuts are also packed with essential minerals and fiber, and their texture promotes the cleanliness of the tooth surface. Additionally, its healthy fats (Omega-3) allow for beneficial effects on the gums by reducing inflammation.
Tip: Snack on raw and unsalted nuts.
4. Lean Proteins
Chicken, fish, eggs, and tofu provide essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. They reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.
Tip: Avoid processed meats such as sausages and bacon. They promote poor oral health by causing plaque buildup, which increases the risk of cavities and gum irritation.
5. Green Tea
Green tea stops the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth and prevents the body from overreacting to inflammation, further preventing unnecessary gum damage.
Tip: Avoid adding sugar to your tea.
You’re welcome to ask any questions that you might have about diet and oral health in your next appointment with a hygienist or a dentist in Dental Geneva!
See you soon!
