Nutrition & Good Oral Health

The most important cause of good oral health is because of the nutrients which are frequently consumed. The nutritional advice offered in relation to oral health are based on the reduction of sugar content in foods and drinks. Frequent consuming of sugar containing foods and drinks is the most important cause of tooth decay. A healthy diet is promoted as a part of general nutrition advice for good oral health. Adding some raw, crunchy fruits and vegetables in every day diet will help to gain whole nutrition.

Ways to protect good oral health:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day
• Floss daily
• Eat a healthy diet
• Limit between meal and snacks
• Replace toothbrush every three to four months
• Schedule regular dental checkups
• Avoid smoking

List of nutrients:

Mostly eat whole foods with lots of lean protein and fresh vegetables. For good oral health keep in mind to choose the correct nutrients:

• Drink plenty of water
• Whole grains
• Fruits
• Low fat and fat free dairy foods

Foods that are eaten as a part of meal causes less harm to the teeth when compared to eating lots of snacks throughout a day. Saliva helps to wash foods from mouth and lessens the effect of acids which causes cavities. Avoid most processed foods especially which are high in simple sugars.

Few nutrients and supplements:

Some of the nutrients and supplements that help to maintain good oral heath are:

• Probiotics – helps to decrease gingivitis and plaque. Bacteria present in the fermented food suppresses the growth of the pathogens in the oral cavity. In a similar way probiotics from any source can be helpful.
• Foods rich in anthocyanins – cranberries, red cabbage, blue berries eggplant peel, raspberries and black rice may restrain the attachment and colonization of pathogens on the host tissues. Cranberry extracts infused in mouthwash improves oral health.
• Green tea – possibly the most well-known tooth strengthener as the tea tends to be rich in fluoride.
• Chewing gum – gum made with pine bark or sap are known to decrease plaque and bleeding gums.