Just as the eyes are the windows to the soul, oral health is the window to overall health, and nutrition plays a vital role here. Oral health only means brushing and flossing to most people. However, whatever we consume on a regular basis also determines the enamel strength and gum health. In the UK, where oral health has become the primary concern, the need for this awareness is even more, especially in London, where people have become more conscious of their oral health. You should schedule a consultation with your London dentist to discover more about how your diet may impact your oral health. In this blog, we have tried to explore the link between oral health and nutrition and how your diet can benefit or harm your oralhealth.
Nutrition for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Specific nutrients are necessary for healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association says a bidirectional relationship exists between oral health and diet and nutrition. Oral Health and nutrition are mutually correlated. Diet and nutrition have an impact on oral tissue health, which in turn has an impact on the nutrients consumed. The Harvard School of Public Health has stressed that food choices and eating habits are important for the prevention of tooth decay and gingival diseases.
Sugar and carbohydrate intake and tooth decay
Eating foods high in sugar and carbs can predispose you to develop tooth decay. These sugars provide afood source for oral bacteria, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Tooth decay can be considerably decreased by limiting the intake of processed meals, sugary sodas, candies, and snacks. According to ADA, sugar consumption increases the risk of dental caries.
Calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and vitamin C play vital roles
The tooth enamel is strengthened by calcium and phosphorus, making teeth more immune to decay. Calcium is properly utilised by the body thanks to vitamin D’s assistance in optimal absorption. Due to its ability to encourage the creation of collagen and help prevent gum disease, vitamin C is essential for having healthygums.
Importance of Hydration
Maintaining proper hydration is essential for dental health. Water consumption throughout the course of the day helps to flush out bacteria and food particles, reduces dry mouth, and encourages salivation. Saliva isnecessary for balancing oral acids and preventing tooth decay.
Keeping track of Acidic Foods and Drinks
Consuming acidic foods and drinks can erode dental enamel over time. Examples include citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated beverages. To lessen the acid’s damaging effects on teeth, it’s vital to consume these in moderation and to rinse the mouth out with water afterwards. It is beneficial to wait a while before brushing to protect the enamel. ADA has emphasized that frequent consumption of acidic food can cause tooth erosion.
High-fibre food and its pros for oral health
Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are among the foods high in fibre that provide multiple benefits for oralwellness. Saliva is produced more readily when chewing fibrous meals, which helps to balance acidity and wash away food residue. Furthermore, chewing on fibrous foods rubs the gums, encouraging healthy gumtissue and lowering the chance of gum disease.
Vitamin Deficiencies and Dental Health Problems
Vitamin deficiencies can result from inadequate nutrition and have a negative impact on dental health. For instance, a vitamin C shortage can result in scurvy, which is marked by bleeding gums and weakeningconnective tissue. Glossitis, mouth sores, and other such oral health issues can be triggered by vitamin Bcomplex deficiencies.
The Effects of Eating Practises on Dental Health
Oral health can be impacted by eating habits and frequency. The teeth are constantly under attack from acid due to frequent eating and drinking sweet or acidic beverages. Limiting between-meal snacks and choosing healthier options are advocated. Maintaining a regular eating schedule also makes it possible topractise good oral hygiene techniques like brushing and flossing.
What you can do
Use fluoride toothpaste, brush your teeth twice daily diligently, and floss to remove plaque daily. Fluoride varnishes also help prevent tooth decay, according to this research.
Go to the dentist frequently: To identify and treat oral health problems early, schedule dental checkups at least once a year.
Avoid smoking, and drink in moderation: To lower your risk of oral cancer, tooth loss, and gum disease, quit smoking and drink in moderation.
Effective diabetes management: Reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues by managingblood sugar levels.
Stay hydrated, and look into other medication options if dry mouth is a concern. Avoid alcohol and smoke.
Bottomline: Brushing and flossing alone are insufficient to maintain good dental health. Strong teeth and gums require a diet rich in principal nutrients that is also well-balanced. We can encourage a healthy smile and overall well-being by limiting sugary and acidic meals, eating a wide range of nutrient-rich foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Keep in mind that a healthy diet is the basis for life.
