In today’s world, with the constant threat of deadly viruses and unexpected diseases, it’s easy to overlook the importance of dental health. However, recent studies suggest that there may be a connection between dental health and cardiovascular disease, as well as rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Kim Capehart, the chair of the Department of General Dentistry at Augusta University, explains that neglecting oral hygiene can allow bacteria to thrive and cause not only oral issues but also problems in other parts of the body.
Furthermore, Dr. Capehart emphasizes that ongoing tooth pain can have a detrimental impact on mental health. It’s clear that dental issues should be avoided and treated whenever possible.
To maintain healthy teeth, it’s essential to be mindful of certain foods and drinks that can be particularly harmful. Some create an environment that promotes cavities, while others can even lead to tooth fractures. Dentists recommend taking precautions to protect your teeth from these hazards.
One of the prime examples is citrus fruits. While they provide the body with vitamin C, their acidic nature can increase acidity levels in the mouth. Dr. Jossen Gastelum advises against consuming citrus fruits frequently, as the acidity can lead to tooth demineralization and enamel erosion.
Additionally, ice is another culprit that should be avoided. Chewing on ice can be detrimental to teeth, especially for individuals with sensitivity issues, as it can cause tooth fractures.
Sticky candies, such as toffees, caramels, and gummy worms, should also be consumed in moderation. The sticky nature of these sweets allows them to get stuck in the grooves of teeth, making it difficult to brush them out. As a result, they can contribute to the formation of cavities.
Surprisingly, even seemingly harmless foods like bread and crackers can have negative effects on dental health. Bread is sticky and can get lodged between teeth, eventually turning into sugar and promoting cavity formation. Similarly, crackers contain carbohydrates that can be converted into sugar, which bacteria can feed on and cause damage to teeth.
Unsurprisingly, soda and energy drinks are known to be harmful to dental health. The high acidity levels in these beverages can be compared to battery acid, causing decay and destruction in the mouth. Energy drinks, despite being loaded with extra sugars, are also acidic and detrimental to teeth.
Coffee, a beloved beverage for many, is unfortunately another acidic drink that can harm teeth. Whether consumed black or with a sweetener, coffee can contribute to tooth decay. Additionally, coffee can stain teeth, further compromising their appearance.
To counterbalance the negative impact of these harmful foods and drinks, there are several options that promote good dental health. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and apples are not only beneficial for overall health but also act as natural tooth cleaners. Chewing on these foods helps remove plaque mechanically, maintaining oral hygiene.
Cheese is another surprising addition to this list. It can be used to neutralize acids in the mouth and contains calcium, which fortifies teeth and stimulates saliva production. Saliva helps maintain a balanced pH level in the mouth.
It’s worth noting that beverages like water, milk, and green tea also contribute to maintaining healthy acidity levels in the mouth. Green tea can even be a suitable substitute for avid coffee drinkers.
In addition to being mindful of dietary choices, other oral hygiene practices should be followed for optimal dental health. Brushing and flossing are basics that cannot be neglected. Dr. Gastelum suggests rinsing the mouth with water or a pH-alkaline mouth rinse like TheraBreath immediately after eating or drinking to neutralize acidity. It’s important to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to allow saliva to buffer the acids.
A helpful tip is to chew sugar-free xylitol gum for at least five minutes after meals. Xylitol inhibits cavity-causing bacteria, while the act of chewing stimulates saliva production. Xylitol gums can be easily found online or at local grocery stores.
Taking care of dental health is crucial in maintaining overall well-being. By making mindful choices about food and drinks and following good oral hygiene practices, individuals can protect their teeth and prevent dental issues.
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