When you think about the proverb-“Health is Wealth” it should not only remind you about having a healthy body but also a healthy mouth. Taking care of one’s oral health is just as essential as taking care of the rest of the body. In today’s world, one cannot ignore oral hygiene and expect to live a carefree life. However, simply brushing and flossing your teeth will not help you to keep your mouth healthy. Good food and a healthy diet play a crucial role in helping you to maintain your dental health.
What is the relation between one’s Diet and Dental Health?
The human body is just like a complex machine. The different organs inside our bodies are like the different parts of a machine. It requires fuel in the form of food to work properly. However, the food that one chooses to eat has several effects on the body. At times, the food that you eat can even affect your oral health. Food rich in vitamins and minerals is good for the teeth. At the same time, certain food items can also cause cavities or lead to tooth decay.
Role of Sugar in Dental Health
One of the major causes of degrading dental health is sugar. According to a study, there is a positive relationship between sugar and dental decay. According to WHO, “ideal added sugar consumption should be no more than 5% of total energy intake”. Another study states that uncontrolled sugar intake can trigger an early sign of dental caries.
Therefore sugar is the main culprit when it comes to degrading dental health and tooth decay. Consuming too many sweetened fruit drinks or sodas, confectioneries or even snacks can lead to an early onset of tooth decay. Although it is a very common childhood disease, it can be easily prevented. Proper brushing and good food habits are useful in preventing this disease.
Most dental problems like yellowing of the tooth or tooth decay happen when the plaque in your mouth comes in contact with the sugar. This leads to the formation of a harmful acid that attacks your teeth. The best way to prevent tooth decay is by controlling the total sugar intake. You can also ask your dietician or dentist to provide you with suggestions for a healthy diet. It has been observed that when a person’s diet lacks certain important nutrients, it becomes difficult for them to resist mouth infection. Sometimes, it can also lead to gum diseases.
Which Food Items are Good for your Oral Health?
Unlike sugar, some food items can boost your oral health. You can consume them daily and even after dental surgery. These food items have all the nutrients necessary for resisting tooth and gum decay and fighting mouth infection. Given below are five food items, good for your oral health:
1. Apples
Although sugar is bad for your dental health, there are certain sweet foods that you can enjoy without worrying about tooth decay. One of them is Apples. An Apple a day not only keeps the doctor away but also helps you to fight dental problems. Apples have a high quantity of fiber and water in them. When you eat an apple, it produces saliva in your mouth, which can rinse away all types of bacteria and food particles. The fibrous texture of an apple also acts as a good gum-stimulator. Although you cannot substitute regular brushing with eating an apple every day, you can use it until you get a chance to brush your teeth. Having an apple after your meal can scrub off all the bacteria from your mouth.
2. Carrots
According to an article, carrots are good for fighting cavities and act as natural toothbrushes. Just like apples, carrots can also generate saliva in your mouth that can brush off bacteria and food particles. Carrots have high fiber content and are rich in vitamin A. You can slice up carrots and enjoy it in your food/salad or just eat raw baby carrots directly. The chewing action will also help you to massage your gums.
3. Celery
Although celery might be a bland leafy vegetable, it has the property of acting as a natural toothbrush. It can scrape off bacteria and food particles from your teeth. Celery is also a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. These two antioxidants are very beneficial for your gums and teeth. You can also top it off with cream cheese to enhance its taste.
4. Yogurt and Cheese
Both yogurt and cheese are rich in protein and calcium. These two minerals are essential for strengthening your teeth. Yogurt also contains good bacteria, which is beneficial for the gums and kills cavity-causing germs. However, do not add sugar to it.
5. Leafy Greens
Green leafy vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals. They also have low-calorie content. Leafy greens like kale and spinach improve oral health. They are rich in calcium, which is necessary for good teeth enamel. Some of them also contain Folic acid-a type of vitamin B that strengthens teeth and gums. You can enjoy fresh leafy vegetables in your salad or as topping in your pizza to enjoy its benefits.
If you want to lead a healthy life, then you must be conscious of what you eat and drink. For maintaining good dental health, you must have your food at proper intervals. If you cannot brush your teeth after every meal, make sure to brush it at least twice a day. Regular brushing and flossing, along with a healthy diet, can help you to fight all kinds of dental problems. Visiting a dentist every month for a dental checkup can also improve your dental hygiene.
