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    Nourishing your body and your smile

    Healthy eating habits are a key part of maintaining great oral health. This month let’s continue to prioritize our well-being by choosing nutritious options and staying active.

    It’s no secret that a balanced diet is important for feeling your best, but it also shapes the trajectory of your oral health. Continue reading for some tips on keeping your body and your smile healthy.

    happy couple eating a salad together

    Prioritizing a nutritious diet for great oral health

    It’s no secret that the food we consume has a big impact on our overall health — and that includes oral health, right down to our teeth and gums. A well-balanced diet, abundant in essential nutrients, can keep us energized and prevent serious health complications, like tooth decay, cavities, and periodontal diseases. 

    Our teeth are covered in plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, and after consuming starches or sugars, this bacteria emits acids that can attack tooth enamel. When plaque isn’t removed or brushed away, it can cause cavities, harden into tartar, and even lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth.

    The effects of this go beyond the mouth, as your oral health is closely connected to overall health, with links to chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more.

    However, through minimizing sugary foods and starches and prioritizing healthy choices, you can significantly reduce the risk of dental issues.

    Nutrient-rich food and mindful snacking can make all the difference. Here are some suggestions:

    • Food that contains minerals like calcium and phosphorus can actually protect and rebuild tooth enamel. These rich nutrients can be found in dairy products, leafy greens, fish, and nuts.
    • Antioxidant vitamins, like vitamin C and folic acid, will also protect your gums from cell damage and bacterial infection. Fruits, vegetables, eggs, and beans are all great examples of food you can prioritize to benefit from these vitamins.
    • Being intentional with your beverage choices will also help keep your teeth healthy. Still water and milk are the safest options, but sugar-free juices can also be a safe alternative – especially if you drink them just at mealtimes.
     

    A nutritious diet can lead to great oral health, but it’s important to remember the basic habits that need to accompany it. The most important tooth decay prevention step is the daily removal of plaque through brushing and flossing. Fluoride will also help strengthen tooth enamel and visiting your dentist twice a year will keep your teeth in check. Bright smiles start from within, remember to make conscious decisions to support your oral and overall health.