Diet and dental health are closely linked and can play a major role in your overall oral and general health. This article will cover how food and diet can impact our oral well-being. We will explore the foods that aid dental health and those that you should limit or try to avoid. We will share our extensive dental industry experience, helping you improve your diet, which will positively impact your oral health.
How Foods Affect Your Oral Wellbeing
Understanding the makeup and nutritional value of different foods can help you make a more informed decision about the type of food you should consume and its effect on your teeth and gums. Many foods are nutritionally rich and good for you.
- Calcium - This is an important part of the tooth enamel, and consuming calcium-rich foods helps strengthen teeth.
- Vitamin C - A key helper in the creation of collagen, which is essential for healthy gums. Vitamin C aids oral health by helping gums repair, helps keep scurvy at bay and is also an impressive antioxidant. Foods rich in vitamin C include citruses, berries and some greens such as kale.
- Antioxidants - The role of antioxidants in aiding dental health should not be underestimated. They help reduce inflammation, kill harmful bacteria in your mouth, and promote overall body health, such as gums. Foods rich in antioxidants include berries, some nuts, carrots, certain yoghurts and leafy greens.
- Vitamin D - Helps the body absorb calcium, a critical component for healthy teeth. Some of the best food sources for vitamin D are salmon, tuna, cheese, mushrooms, orange juice and beef. Another benefit for your oral health comes from the creation of peptides that have been shown to help reduce mouth infections.
Some food types to try and avoid, and there are plenty of them out there, include:
- High in sugars—Consuming too many sugars is not good for your general health and has an immediate detrimental effect on your teeth. Unfortunately, sugars are found in many foods, with some of the worst sources being sweets, fizzy drinks, cakes, desserts, protein bars, canned fruits and processed foods.
- Acids—Unfortunately, acids erode enamel over time and can require fillings or even a root canal. Some common foods that are high in acids include lemons, oranges, soft drinks such as Coke, foods high in vinegar, tomatoes, many sports drinks, and wine. Some of the foods on this list are also highly nutritional and should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
- Carbonated Drinks - Not all, but many carbonated drinks can have a negative impact on your oral and overall health. Some are a lot worse for you than others. For example, Coca-Cola has a large amount of added sugars (a standard 355 ml can of Coca-Cola contains approximately 39g of sugar) and sweeteners. Consuming carbonated drinks will increase tooth erosion by degrading enamel and damaging the outer area of the tooth, often leading to root canal treatment.
- Tannins - These are compounds that are found naturally in foods. While it is true that they can have beneficial qualities (antioxidants), they can also cause oral-related problems. Potential issues caused by tannins include discolourisation of the teeth, tooth sensitivity due to acid qualities, and increased plaque formation. Common foods they are found in are fruits and vegetables (red grapes, apples and pears), many nut varieties such as almonds and pecans, as well as barley and some spices. Again, many of these foods have great nutritional value and need to be consumed in moderation.
Potential Issues Caused From Poor Diet
A poor diet can lead to many oral health issues. As a dentist with over twenty years of experience, I have observed that some of the more common problems include:
- Gum Disease - Gum issues can sometimes evolve slowly, so early detection is important so treatments can be administered. Symptoms of gum disease often include red or bleeding gums, constant bad breath, gums that are painful to touch or brush your teeth, abscesses, sores and sensitivity when eating or drinking.
- Erosion of Enamel - Your enamel is the outer layer that acts as a protective barrier. Certain foods and drinks, as discussed previously, are more proactive in causing enamel erosion. Consuming too much acidic and sugar-filled food will erode your enamel, causing problems such as tooth sensitivity, decay, cracks and a yellow appearance.
- Cavity Creation - Caused by acidic and sugary food, a cavity is an area of the tooth that has become exposed due to erosion or damage. They are usually small. However, they allow foreign substances to enter and cause infections and pain. Cavities need to be treated by a professional dentist, as they can quickly deteriorate and turn into abscesses.
- Staining—Staining usually turns teeth yellow to black over time. It is mainly caused by the consumption of food such as coffee, spices, coke, and tobacco, combined with poor dental cleaning. Regular brushing and professional tooth cleaning at a dental practice can help.
Tips To Promote Oral Health
- Drink water—Water helps with the cleaning process, reduces harmful bacteria, and aids in removing food from teeth. It is also sugar-free and helps with overall general health.
- Rinse your mouth after food - You should rinse your mouth with water for at least 30 seconds. This will help remove foods and neutralise acids.
- Clean your teeth regularly - You should clean your teeth at least twice a day, and flossing should be included each night. It is also important to make sure your toothbrush is not too old and defective, as this will make the cleaning process less effective.
- Consume a balanced diet - Eat foods that help your body improve oral health and are rich in calcium and vitamins.
Conclusion
Proper nutrition and maintaining good oral hygiene will help improve your dental health. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals while limiting sugary and acidic foods can significantly aid the health of your teeth and gums. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are important to prevent common dental issues such as gum disease, enamel erosion, and cavities.