The Connection Between Nutrition and Oral Health

When you think about what you want for lunch, hopefully you consider more than just satisfying your hunger. The food you eat affects every aspect of your body, from digestive health and energy levels to the strength of your teeth and gums. Opting for nutrient-rich options fuels your body and protects your oral health at the same time.

It’s a well-known fact that some foods build strong enamel, maintain gum health, and keep harmful bacteria in check. On the other hand, a poor diet weakens your teeth, increases your risk of cavities, and even affects the way your mouth feels and functions.

The link between nutrition and dental health is undeniable, yet it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of oral care. Along with following dental care tips like brushing and flossing every day, focus on eating foods that promote healthy teeth and avoiding those that cause cavities and gum disease. Here’s a list to get you started.

Nutrient-Rich Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Great oral health starts long before you step into a dentist’s office. Incorporate the following foods into your diet to support strong teeth and gums:

• Dairy products: Cheese, yogurt, and milk are packed with calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that rebuild enamel and strengthen tooth structure. Yogurt also contains probiotics, which help manage the bacteria that cause gum disease.
• Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula contain calcium, folic acid, and vitamin C. These nutrients support cell repair, reduce gum inflammation, and contribute to healthy blood vessels in the gums.
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery act as natural toothbrushes, scrubbing your teeth while you chew. Their high fiber content also boosts saliva flow, which neutralizes acid and keeps your mouth cleaner between brushes.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds are excellent sources of calcium and other minerals that strengthen enamel. They also offer a satisfying crunch that helps to dislodge food particles from between your teeth.
• Fatty fish and eggs: Salmon and other oily fish deliver vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium effectively. Eggs offer a combination of protein, vitamin D, and phosphorus, all of which are essential for enamel repair.
• Green and black tea: These teas contain polyphenols that limit the growth of bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease. Drinking unsweetened tea is the best way to reduce plaque buildup.
• Water: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth. Saliva is your body’s natural defense against decay, and water promotes healthy saliva levels. Fluoridated water is best for strengthening teeth and washing away debris.

Foods That Harm Your Teeth

Some foods and drinks erode enamel, trigger inflammation, and feed harmful bacteria in your mouth. Limit these items or take extra care when indulging in them to promote better oral health:

• Candy: Most people know the adverse effects of sugar on oral hygiene. Sticky sweets like gummies and caramel cling to your teeth and give cavity-causing bacteria more time to work. Hard candies aren’t any better because they keep sugar in your mouth longer as they slowly dissolve and pose the risk of chipped teeth if you bite down wrong.
• Soda and other sweetened drinks: Soda is one of the worst offenders for oral hygiene. The combination of sugar and acid breaks down enamel with every sip. Energy drinks and sweet tea carry similar risks.
• Acidic fruits and juices: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain valuable nutrients, but their high acidity can weaken enamel if consumed in excess. Eating the whole fruit is better than drinking juice, which tends to be more concentrated and acidic.
• Refined carbohydrates: White bread, chips, and crackers quickly convert to sugars in your mouth, feeding bacteria that produce acid and erode enamel. These starchy snacks also tend to get trapped between teeth. Rinse with water afterward to help clear lingering particles and reduce their harmful effects.
• Alcohol: Alcohol dries out your mouth and reduces saliva flow. Without saliva, your mouth has a harder time neutralizing acids and clearing food debris, which increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
• Dried fruit: Raisins, craisins, and fruit leather may seem like healthy choices, but they’re often packed with sugar and stick to your teeth. The texture allows sugar to sit against enamel for long periods, increasing the risk of decay.

Protect Your Smile at S&C Dental Beverly Hills

Are you looking for a dentist who provides comprehensive, full-service dental care? S&C Dental Beverly Hills offers everything from preventative and family dentistry to cosmetic treatments and emergency care. Dr. Kayla Lebo brings personalized service to every appointment by using advanced dental technology to ensure patient comfort and optimal outcomes. Contact our Beverly Hills office today or schedule your appointment online to take the next step toward a healthier, brighter smile.