Learn How the Right Diet Can Easily Improve Your Oral Health

There are more advantages to maintaining good oral hygiene than you may realize. Aside from having healthier teeth and gums, goods oral hygiene can reduce your chances of getting heart diseases such as endocarditis or a stroke, pregnancy issues, diabetes and more. Good oral hygiene can also give you more self-confidence and improve your smile. Studies suggest that people who smile more appear more attractive and approachable. They do better socially, professionally, and may live longer.

The steps to a healthy mouth have been drilled in our heads from childhood. By brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and periodically seeing a highly-rated dentist such as the friendly professionals at your local Hamilton dental clinic, you can easily be on the road to excellent oral hygiene. Aside from these steps, your diet can also play a significant role in your oral health.

#1 Drink More Water

One of the best foods for good oral health is water. Even after you brush your teeth, food particles are left in your mouth, especially in difficult-to-reach areas. Water can wash away these particles, especially when consumed regularly throughout the day.

Over time, leftover food in the mouth can attract bacteria in the form of a thin sticky yellow layer called plaque. When plaque isn’t cleaned, it can strengthen into tartar. Over time, this can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Aside from washing away food, water also improves saliva production, which helps fight bacteria. Fluoridated water is consumed in most parts of Canada and helps strengthens tooth enamel and fight tooth decay.

#2 Consume the Right Dairy Products

Foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese are good for your oral health because they strengthen and rebuild your teeth. The calcium and phosphates in these foods can add minerals to your teeth that it may have lost. Cheese also improves saliva production.

#3 Eat More Veggies and Fruits

Eat vegetables such as carrots, celery for better saliva production. These vegetables also strengthen teeth. Leafy greens such as lettuce, kale, and spinach are all good for oral health. Dark green vegetables contain vitamins, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, which all assist oral hygiene.

Fruits such as apples and pears are excellent for your teeth. Fibre-rich fruits and cacao increase saliva production and can help clean your teeth. Berries such as blueberries, cranberries, and strawberries can also fight plaque and tartar. 

#4 Avoid Harmful Items

Minimize the consumption of drinks such as sugary colas or red wine. While the acidic properties of the former can damage your tooth enamel, the latter can stain your teeth and leave you with an unsightly smile. Alcohol is also bad for your oral health because it can dry out your mouth and promote the growth of bacteria.

While it’s not a food, smoking and tobacco are particularly bad for teeth. Not only does tobacco badly stain your teeth, but it can damage them by creating plaque and tartar. Smoking also reduces saliva flow and leads to gum diseases. Over time, it can cause oral cancer.

While sticking to a healthy diet takes discipline and dedication, it’s worthwhile in the long run. Not only can eating right help improve your oral health, but it can improve your overall health.