National Nutrition Month
Even though March, National Nutrition Month for this year, has passed,
people can still exercise the healthy habits associated with the month
dedicated to nutrition and developing one’s overall well-being. What a person
eats is essential, and the mouth, gums, and teeth are essential to the process.
If someone’s nutrition starts to suffer, their teeth give it away. Cavities and
sudden sensitivity may emerge if they are lacking in various aspects of
nutrition. To avoid this, it’s best to try to be aware of what foods you eat, how
often you eat them, and what they offer in terms of nutrition.
Deficiencies and Dental Health
Malnutrition makes it harder for your teeth and gums to remain in good
health. Lack of protein and other vitamin rich foods can slow down the body’s
ability to heal. This can jeopardize the body’s ability to rebuild tooth
enamel, which naturally protects teeth. This can affect your overall health by
making your teeth and gums more susceptible to disease.
Foods that Harm
Sugary foods offer little nutritional value and can eventually harm
teeth. Too much candy and soda can contribute to cavities, tooth decay, and
gingivitis. Also, too many acidic foods, such as lemons, oranges, or limes, at
once can further erode enamel. Even sticky foods like dried fruit can stay on the
teeth longer than needed and cause dental damage. Weakened enamel leaves teeth
in a vulnerable state, making them more prone to discoloration, chips, and
cracks. Also, drinking less alcohol can help you avoid dry mouth and other oral
infections.
Foods that Help
Instead of sugary snacks, try to eat healthier foods. Eating more
dairy like cheese and yogurt provides vitamin D and creates stronger bones and
teeth. Apples, carrots, and celery also work to clean teeth and keep them in
great health. These foods can encourage saliva production, washing away any
debris in between teeth.
Calcium, protein, and other nutrients can strengthen enamel and
further protect your teeth. Stronger enamel can also brighten your teeth, preventing
discoloration and giving you a more confident smile. Along with healthier
snacks, swap out the sugary juices and sodas for water. Drinking water between
meals can help get rid of any debris or food particles that may stick to your
teeth and destroy enamel.
Benefits
Overtime, you may soon notice a brighter smile and less sensitivity
regarding your teeth and gums. Healthy foods create healthy teeth, and
monitoring your diet and nutrition is just a small part of keeping up great
oral hygiene.
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