In addition to being the cornerstone of a vibrant smile, healthy teeth play a critical role in dietary health. When they’re strong, teeth can chomp and chew through a variety of foods with ease. But while they may be designed to help us eat, what we eat can also help—and hurt—our teeth. To illustrate this important aspect of holistic dentistry, here are just a few ways your diet can impact your oral hygiene.  

What Can Your Diet Choices Do to Your Smile?

Build Stronger Teeth

Consuming a balanced diet that includes whole grains, dairy, fresh produce, and protein will provide your body with a wealth of nutrients that help support oral health. Specifically, calcium—found in milk, broccoli, almonds, and many other foods—is an essential mineral that helps maintain strong teeth as well as better defend against cavities. Phosphorous—another important mineral found in fish, lean meats, eggs, and beans—will also help strengthen your teeth.

Manage Cavity Risks

Just as calcium and phosphorous can build stronger teeth, sugars are known to weaken them. When you eat any form of carbohydrate—including starches, such as bread and potatoes—the bacteria in your mouth will feed off the substance for energy. As bacteria consume sugar, they produce harmful acids that will wear away at enamel and cause tooth decay.

For this reason, it’s critical that you stay smart about your sugar intake. If possible, avoid foods that contained refined sugars—such as sticky candy and soda. When you do consume carbohydrates, holistic dentistry practitioners recommend eating them along with healthier foods—such as fresh vegetables and fruit. Eating these nutritional items can help neutralize harmful acids in the mouth, as well as scrub bacteria-filled plaque away from teeth. The act of chewing crunchy produce—such as carrots and celery—can also increase your saliva levels to help rinse away bacteria and food debris.

Boost Gum Health

Found in chili peppers, citrus fruits, kale, and many other produce items, vitamin C is another important nutrient that you can get from a balanced diet. In terms of holistic dentistry, this vitamin is known for boosting the body’s immune system response. The stronger your immune system is, the easier it is for your body to fend off potential health threats—including those in the mouth. As a result, including vitamin C in your regular diet will improve your ability to fight off bacterial infections, such as those that cause gingivitis and gum disease.

Eating healthy foods is just one pillar of holistic dentistry. That’s why Anthony J. Adams, DDS at Healthy Body Dental is committed to delivering comprehensive, natural dentistry to patients in Clearwater, FL. Taking your entire health into consideration, Dr. Adams is equipped to identify, treat, and prevent common dental health issues—including gum disease and tooth decay. To learn more about this approach to oral health, visit this dental office online. For dental cleanings and an exam, call (727) 799-3123 to schedule a convenient appointment.