Dr. Vladimir Khramoy and Dr. Caroline Salib tell their patients that the health and appearance of their smiles depend on eating wisely.  In fact, a nutritious diet wards off tooth decay and keeps gums pink. What strategies can you use for your best diet– one that’s good for your waistline and your optimal dental health?

What Goes On in Your Mouth?

Literally, your mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria. Dentists agree that one kind of bacteria causes decay and another kind causes destructive gum disease. Both adversely affect the oral–and systemic health–of children, teens, and adults

While heredity, oral hygiene habits, and systemic health conditions impact oral health, foods and beverages do, too. In particular, sugary drinks and snacks, along with other carbohydrate-rich choices, foster bacterial growth. This bacteria lives in the sticky plaque and hard tartar which accumulate on and between your teeth and at the gum line.

Left undisturbed, the bacteria in plaque and tartar secrete very corrosive acids that lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Both conditions are prevalent chronic health problems all over the world.

To truly benefit your dental health, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises this guideline: think before you eat. If you reduce carbohydrates and acidic foods and increase healthy choices, the changes will show when your dentist in Parma Heights sees you for your six-month oral exams and hygienic cleanings.

Is Healthy Eating Really That Easy?

Frankly, good nutrition is not always easy because American diets are loaded with processed, super-sweet foods and beverages. The US Department of Agriculture joins dentists in helping all of us eat healthier. Check out this website: ChooseMyPlate.gov. You’ll find ideas for a diet that benefits hard tooth enamel and your best gum tissue.

Interestingly,  when you select fruits, vegetables, dairy, whole grains and low-fat proteins, these nutritious choices tend to crowd out unhealthy cravings. Good food makes for bright, long-lasting smiles.

What are Nutritious Foods?

Read here about the foods that maintain healthy mouths.

• Pick high fiber fruits and vegetables. They increase beneficial saliva, and together with brushing and flossing, keep tooth enamel and gums really clean. Try for up to four servings of fruit and up to five servings of vegetables a day. Fruit juice counts, too, but rinse with water or brush afterward.

• Select high-grain, high-fiber cereals, and breads–six to eleven servings per day. Eliminate starchy white bread and sugary cereals.

• Dairy products build bones and teeth. Cheese, milk, yogurt and other dairy products contain tooth-building calcium. Both children and adults need this key nutrient.

• Low-fat meats contain amino acids (protein) that keep gums healthy. Poultry, fish, and eggs benefit your oral health, too.

• Push water–several glasses if possible. Water boosts the metabolism, aids digestion and makes us feel fuller so we don’t overeat. While 64 ounces of water or more a day sounds like a lot, it’s a reachable goal if you spread it out.

What’s Good for Your Teeth?

In Parma Heights, consult with Dr. Khramoy or Dr. Salib. They believe preventive dental care includes eating a nutritious diet.  Contact Advanced Dental Center today to schedule a six-month cleaning and exam. Ask for more suggestions on tooth-friendly foods.