The Role of Nutrition in Oral Health

The relationship between nutrition and oral health is far greater than just picking the foods you shouldn’t eat because they might ruin your teeth. The early formation of teeth as well as their maintenance throughout your lifespan depends on a steady intake of specific, healthy nutrients. Calcium and magnesium, as well as Vitamins A, C, D and K are all important for maintaining healthy, strong teeth.

 

 Generally speaking, a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins can help promote good oral health. Additionally, limiting the amount of sugar and processed foods you consume and drinking plenty of water can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

Some of the foods that can actually improve your body’s intake of healthy nutrients that enhance oral health include cheese and other dairy products rich in calcium, as well as celery, carrots, leafy greens, apples, nuts and fatty fish. As for drinks, you can enjoy your water, tea and coffee without a problem in most cases, though coffee should be mostly avoided if you already have some tooth decay.

It’s also worth noting that you shouldn’t ignore your regular oral hygiene practices just because you switched to a healthy diet. A doctor who performs safe wisdom tooth extraction affirms that oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, will also be crucial for maintaining good oral health.