Did you know the foods you eat impact your smile? Your diet has a direct correlation to your physical health and your oral health. Teeth are as important as other parts of the human body. Keeping the teeth healthy can also keep your body healthy. For example, due to inflammation and infection in the bloodstream, several oral health problems like dental decay and gum disease can affect the heart. Eating acidic and sugary foods can lead to problems like cavities and tooth wear. Here you can discover more about the connection between your diet and oral health in East Cobb, GA.
How Your Diet Affects Oral Health in East Cobb, GA
Some of the best types of foods for your teeth include:
Fruits
Foods high in sugar and starch can damage the tooth enamel. Canned fruits and juices can have high amounts of sugar and use preservatives. Fresh fruits are a healthier alternative to packaged or canned fruits. Additionally, fruits like apples and oranges are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C can reduce gum swelling, a common symptom of gingivitis and gum disease.
Dairy
Cheese, yogurt, and milk are rich in calcium, a mineral that promotes healthy bones and teeth. Our bodies cannot produce calcium, so it is important to consume foods and drinks high in calcium. Calcium can also help blood clot, muscles contract, and regulate the heart. If you cannot consume dairy, fortified plant-based milk like rice, soy, and almond milk can provide calcium.
Fish
Your body can not absorb calcium without vitamin D. Tuna, salmon, and other types of fish contain vitamin D, which also helps absorb magnesium and phosphate. Magnesium regulates nerve function, blood pressure, and blood glucose. Like calcium, phosphates encourage bone and tooth growth.
Whole Grains
Oatmeal, bread, and other whole-grain products contain iron, magnesium, and Vitamin B. Iron enables red blood cells to transport oxygen. Additionally, iron helps regulate body temperature and gives you energy. Vitamin B improves the function of the cells and maintains body tissues. Bone and gum tissue benefit from Vitamin B. Be careful when buying whole-grain as some prepackaged products can be high in sugar. Adding fruits or cinnamon to oatmeal can also cut down on sugar consumption.
Have you noticed any changes in your oral health? Do you want to address dental concerns? Contact our dental office today at 470.795.6677 or schedule a dental appointment with our dentists online. Feel free to ask us if you have questions about your treatment and we will help.