Photo of colorful fruit and vegetable mix with measuring tape, stethoscope and scale meter; concept of fitness
During the month of March, we observe National Nutrition Month. We want our patients to be aware of how proper nutrition not only helps your waistline and your heart health, but your smile as well. Healthy snacks and drinks can help safeguard your smile against tooth decay and gum disease.
Drinking More Water, Less Soda
As dental professionals, we see first hand how sugary drinks, such as sodas or energy drinks, or beverages with a highly acidic content, like sports drinks, can impact smiles. We see the plaque buildup, the weakened tooth enamel, and the cavities. Instead of drinking these items in excess, you should add more water to your life. Water contains no sugars or acids and hydrates you. Replacing your soda with water can benefit your smile, as well as your waist line.
Healthier Snacking Habits
When we consume foods high in sugary and other starches, especially snacks such as chips, candy, and other sugar-packed treats, we coat the teeth in sugar particles. Bacteria will break down these particles in a process that elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in plaque. A bacterial byproduct, plaque can weaken tooth enamel and allow harmful bacteria to move past the enamel and into the sensitive inner dentin. There, a cavity forms that will continue to grow until treated.
Above, we suggested replacing soda and energy drinks with water. We also recommend avoiding sugary snacks and opting for healthier foods, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, low-fat yogurt, and nuts. These can provide a great snack, a boost of energy, and won’t endanger your smile. If you’re a parent, consider changing what snacks you provide for your little ones. If you start early, they will look forward to these fun snacks instead of dreading them. If you have any questions or concerns about healthier snack options and avoiding decay, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Nutrition and Oral Health?
We can offer tips on maintaining healthier smiles and avoiding the foods and drinks that can harm your smile. To schedule an appointment, call Viva Dental Family Dentistry at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
