What you eat not only effects your overall health but also the health of your teeth and gums. For example, consuming too much sugar can be detrimental to your oral health by increasing the risk of tooth decay. Lack of proper nutrition has also been linked to an increased risk of developing oral cancer, periodontal disease, and damage to the tooth enamel. If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it can also increase the bacteria and acidity levels in your mouth as well as lead to a greater build-up of plaque on your teeth.
Thankfully, there are also many nutrients that work to keep your teeth and gums in tiptop shape, and to protect your smile against infection and disease. Vitamin A aids in tooth formation, and Vitamin B helps maintain the functionality of your teeth, gums, and tongue.
It is important to note that each person has a unique metabolism, and the nutrients in certain foods may work better for you than for others. Our knowledgeable dentist, Dr. Reid Marshall, will assess your current diet and oral health to determine the type of diet and nutrients that will be most beneficial for you, along with any changes to your eating habits and oral routines that you may need to make.
There are also several basic but important things you can do on your own to help maintain good oral health:
- Pay attention to food labels
- Limit your intake of foods that are high in sugars and carbohydrates
- Eat fresh foods and vegetables
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat foods that are high in calcium and phosphorus
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily
To learn more about diet and dental health in Trussville, Alabama and to make your appointment with our dentist, please contact Marshall Family Dentistry at 205-853-4600.
