Your diet can have a significant impact on oral health. Most people are aware that sticky, sweet foods, candy, soft drinks, desserts and dried fruits can stick to your teeth and get imbedded in your gum line. The residual sugar in these foods promotes tooth decay and increases your chances of developing gum disease. Highly acidic foods can also cause enamel erosion leading to sensitivity issues and tooth decay.
At the same time there are many foods that deserve extra consideration for promoting good oral health. Things like cheese, milk, plain yogurt, leafy greens and certain types of tree nuts are high in calcium and can have a positive impact on the strength of your teeth. This is also true of foods that are high in protein and phosphorus like lean meats, poultry, fish, milk and eggs can also help strengthen and fortify tooth enamel.
High fiber fruits and vegetables also help to stimulate saliva production, helping to wash away residual food particles and plaque. Fruits and vegetables that are high vitamin A and vitamin C, also bolster your immune system and can help fight infection and slow the bacteria’s ability to cause gum disease.
If you have questions about what foods might be beneficial for your oral health, please feel free to call us at 208-888-3311 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you maximize your long term oral health!