Good hygiene and regular exams are the most important tools in your dental care arsenal, but for the brightest, healthiest smile, there's more you can do. What you eat has a profound effect on your teeth, from replenishing the minerals strengthening your enamel to encouraging or discouraging bacteria growth. If you want to boost your dental health, PdC Dentistry, S.C. in Prairie Du Chien, WI, recommends examining your diet.

More Minerals

Calcium and fluoride are some of the most basic building blocks of your teeth, but over time, these minerals leach out of your enamel, leaving it weakened. To keep your teeth at their strongest, eat calcium-rich foods, like dairy, and drink fluoridated water or use other fluoride-boosting products recommended by your dentist.

Less Acids

Acidic foods such as tomatoes, citrus, and soda can wear away your tooth enamel, increasing the chances you'll need fillings at your next dental care visit. Sugary foods are just as bad, since the acid-producing bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars. Eat these foods in moderation, and rinse with water afterward.

Hydration

Aside from acting as a source of fluoride, water is important to your dental health because it can help dilute acids and wash away food debris. Drink water often throughout the day, especially if you suffer from dry mouth.

Fruits & Vegetables

Crunchy, fibrous fruits and vegetables do more than provide nutrients. Chewing them also helps clean plaque from your teeth and stimulates saliva production to wash away debris. While a stick of celery can't replace a toothbrush, it can still be a great supplement to your dental hygiene.

If your diet isn't healthy for your teeth, make a change today. For more dental care advice, schedule an appointment with PdC Dentistry, S.C. today. You can reach the practice at (608) 326-8458 or learn more online.