How Eating Healthy Helps Your Teeth

Brushing and flossing every day and routinely visiting the dentist will help your teeth and gums stay healthy and strong. Did you know that what you eat affects your oral health too? Here’s why consuming a balanced diet is a critical part of maintaining good dental health:

Your Teeth Need Calcium-Rich Foods

Your body uses calcium to build strong enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth that protects them against sensitivity and cavities. To get enough of this mineral, eat foods like yogurt, cheese, almonds, and dark leafy greens.

Essential Vitamins Help Prevent Decay & Gum Disease

Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and several B vitamins are essential for proper functioning of your cells, tissues, and organ systems. Vitamin A, C, and D are particularly important for your oral health.

Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. While the best source is from the sun, you can also get vitamin D from fatty fish (like salmon) and eggs. Vitamin A, which is found in orange foods like carrots and sweet potatoes, keeps your tooth enamel and gum tissue strong. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps your oral tissue heal from irritation and infection. It is found in citrus, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Sugary Foods Contribute to Poor Oral Health

Candy, baked goods, soda, and fruit juice make you more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. While the sugar itself doesn’t directly cause damage, the bacteria in your mouth eat the sugar and produce harmful acids. These acids erode your enamel and irritate your gums. To reduce your risk of dental disease, limit the amount of sugary and starchy foods in your diet.

A Balanced Diet Is Good for Both Your Oral & Overall Health!

Throughout the course of your week, drink plenty of water and eat a variety of food groups to ensure you get all the nutrients you need for good health. If you have food restrictions for any reason, talk to your healthcare providers about vitamin supplements or food substitutes that can help.

Comprehensive Dentistry in Fayetteville, AR

At Wedington Family Dental, Dr. Beauchamp and our team offer a variety of dental services. Whether you’re looking for preventive dentistry, restorative treatments, or cosmetic dentistry, we’re here to help. And if you have additional questions about how your diet could affect your oral health or you want to schedule an appointment at our office, please contact us today!

Contact Us