The foods we choose to eat have a direct impact our dental health. Jordan Landing Smiles reminds you that sugary foods, in particular, can lead to tooth decay and pain.
Bacteria in the mouth converts sugars into acids. It is the acids that begin to assault tooth enamel and initiate decay. Sugar is in many different foods – some that you might not suspect, like ketchup – and it’s important to know they’re there, so you can avoid them.
Fruits have sugar in the form of fructose. Most also have a high water content, which can dilute the effects of the sugars they contain and get the saliva flowing. That means they aren’t really much of a threat, although you should brush after eating fruit.
The real culprits, when it comes to sugar, are the chocolate bars, hard candies, cookies, cakes and pies, and other confections.
Acidic Food Coupling
Oranges, tomatoes, lemons and the like should be eaten as part of a meal to minimize the acidic effects. It is smart to eat a variety of healthy foods such as cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will boost tooth remineralization.
Timing of Meals
The more frequently you eat the more often your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be eased by picking healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat the more likely you are to not only eat unhealthy foods, but to skip oral hygiene altogether.
Because so many foods can cause tooth decay and pain, we remind you to brush and floss after every meal. We also remind you to come see us at Jordan Landing Smiles every six months for a teeth cleaning and checkup. We provide general and cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening, and are proud of our state-of-the-art dental technology.
Schedule an appointment with us today at West Jordan Dental Office.