It’s time for New Year’s resolutions again and maybe you’ve finally decided to take your oral health seriously. No more feeling like you have to lie to the dentist when she asks if you floss regularly or feeling embarrassed with bad breath because taking care of your mouth will help set you up for a better dentist’s visit and oral health. We’ve all been there… the dentist’s visit inspires you to floss and you feel up to the challenge but by day 3, you’re just too tired to do the extra step. But what if you could help create optimal oral health during the day by what foods you do or don’t eat? Well you can, better nutrition will lead to stronger teeth and healthier gums.

How does nutrition affect my oral health?

A healthy mouth starts with knowing what foods to stay away from. Sugar is the absolute worst for your teeth and gum health. Cutting your sugars and alcohol (which has a lot of sugar) will improve your teeth’s health tremendously. Sugar produces acids in the mouth that attack teeth and breaks down the enamel which can cause rotting and cavities. Stay away from sugary drinks such as sodas, fruit juices, sports drinks or anything else with a lot of sugar. If you must drink such drinks, rinse your mouth afterward with water to wash away any sugar and acids. Of course, the best thing to do is just stick with water, drinking plenty of water is good for your overall heath anyway.

Create a diet rich in calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin C. Calcium found in milk, yogurt, cheese, almonds and leafy greens promote strong teeth. Eggs, fish, nuts, and beans all contain phosphorous that also encourage strong teeth. Vitamin C is great for your gum health, it can be found in foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, and other vegetables. Eating a whole foods diet promotes less teeth sensitivity and healthier gums.

The best way to take care of the health of your mouth is through your nutritional health. Changing what you eat is difficult to do especially if it hasn’t been top priority to you before. But just like forming any habit, you have to dedicate time. It takes about 28 days to form a new habit.

To help build that habit maybe keep track of what you eat and when and see how your oral health improves. Maybe your teeth become less sensitive to cold or hot and your gums become a light pink- indicating optimal health. It’s a new year and you’re now determined and have the knowledge to get in the best (oral) shape of your life!

It is important to take care of your dental health for many reasons. Healthy teeth and gums are the gateway to good overall health and a beautiful smile. You’ll not only feel good, you’ll look good! Let our dental practice in Walled Lake, Mi help. Dr. Hechtman has been providing dental care for over 40 years! Our goal at Walled Lake Dentistry is to work with our patients in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile. Call us today at 248-669-5221 and get started on healthy mouth and smile!