Did you know that when the sugars or starches in your mouth come into contact with plaque, it produces acids that can attack your teeth for twenty minutes or longer?
When you consume starchy or sugary foods and beverages you are feeding bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is a film that sticks to the surface of your teeth, and it consists of bacteria and other materials. Over time, this can break down the enamel of your teeth, causing tooth decay. Additionally, the bacteria in plaque triggers an inflammatory response which causes your gums, bones and other teeth supporting structures to deteriorate.
With is being said, the foods and beverages you consume can either contribute to plaque buildup or fight against it. Learn how you can make the wisest dietary choices to maintain your oral health today.
The Best Foods to Eat
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Fruits and Vegetables That Are Rich in Fiber – It is the best natural defense against gum disease and cavities. When you consume foods with fiber, it has a detergent effect in your mouth. These foods increase saliva production to wash away debris. Your saliva decreases the impact of acids enzymes that attack your teeth when you eat something containing sugar or starches. Also, your saliva contains calcium and phosphate which remineralizes your teeth.
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Dairy Products – Dairy options, including cheese, milk, and plain yogurt stimulate saliva flow in your mouth. These foods also contain traces of calcium and phosphate which restore the minerals in your teeth.
- Tea – Green and black tea, contain the substance polyphenol. When you drink tea, the polyphenols eliminate plaque bacteria in your mouth. It prevents bacteria from multiplying or creating acids that attack your teeth. Avoid adding sugar or artificial sweeteners to your tea, as these promote tooth decay.
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Sugar-Free Chewing Gum – As you know, saliva eliminates food particles in your mouth. Chewing gum is a great way to increase your saliva production, just ensure that it is free from sugar.
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Foods Containing Fluorides – When you consume foods or beverages containing fluoride, it strengthens your enamel and prevents tooth decay. Examples include cereal, crab, powdered juice, and table wine.
The Worst Foods to Eat
If you are unsure of how healthy a specific food or beverage is for your teeth, ask your dentist in Davie.
Avoid the following options for healthier teeth:
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Candy – When you were younger, you were probably told that eating candy would give you cavities. Licorice, toffee, caramels, and even cough drops contain refined sugars which are like a magnet for harmful bacteria.
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Starchy Foods – Pasta, bread, chips, and other starchy foods can be just as harmful to your teeth as sugar. These foods can become lodged between your teeth and are broken down into simple sugars.
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Fizzy Drinks – As you may know, carbonated beverages contain high amounts of sugar. Additionally, they include phosphoric and citric acids that damage your tooth enamel.
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Substances That Dry Out Your Mouth – Did you know that many medications cause dry mouth? Speak with your dentist in Davie if you are struggling with dry mouth, they can provide you with a fluoride rinse or gel. Similarly, the consumption of alcohol can cause your mouth to become very dry and sticky.
In the long run, choosing nutritious food and beverage options will reduce your risk of tooth decay and other oral-related issues.
Visit your Dentist
You should also maintain your oral health by visiting your dental clinic for biannual cleanings and check-ups. During your cleaning, a dental professional will remove plaque and tartar buildup.