Nutrition and oral health: foods that are friends and enemies of teeth

Nutrition and oral health: the link between food and teeth

Nutrition and oral health are closely linked. The foods we consume affect not only our general well-being, but also the health of our teeth and gums. Some foods help protect enamel, while others can promote tooth decay and inflammation. Find out which foods to choose to maintain a healthy smile.

Nutrition and oral health: tooth-friendly foods

Some foods help strengthen teeth and prevent problems. For example, crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots and celery, remove food debris and plaque during chewing. They also stimulate saliva production, which helps fight bacteria.

Dairy products are also beneficial. Milk, yogurt, and cheese contain calcium and phosphates, which are essential for strengthening enamel. Eating a piece of cheese after meals can reduce acidity in the mouth.

Finally, nuts and seeds provide essential minerals and promote active chewing. Green tea and black tea also contain polyphenols that fight cavity-causing bacteria. Drinking plenty of water is equally important to hydrate the mouth and remove food debris.

Foods to avoid for good oral health

Some foods can damage enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. For example, sweets and sugary drinks feed bacteria that produce tooth-damaging acids.

In addition, fruit juices and carbonated soft drinks have a high sugar and acid content, which can erode tooth enamel. Sticky foods, such as gummy candies and sugary nuts, also tend to stick to teeth, creating a favorable environment for bacteria.

Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and crackers, quickly turn into simple sugars, feeding mouth bacteria. Finally, alcohol can reduce saliva production, making teeth more vulnerable.

Nutrition and oral health: the role of balanced diet

Following a balanced diet is essential for healthy teeth. It is not necessary to completely eliminate harmful foods, but it is important to consume them in moderation.

For example, drinking water after eating an acidic or sugary food helps reduce the risk of tooth erosion. In addition, supplementing meals with beneficial foods, such as an apple or a piece of cheese, helps protect enamel.

The choice of snacks is equally important. Preferring natural yogurt, nuts, or raw vegetables instead of sugary or salty snacks helps both oral health and overall well-being.

Oral hygiene and prevention

In addition to nutrition, proper oral hygiene is essential. Brushing teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay. In addition, flossing allows you to clean the areas between the teeth where the toothbrush does not reach.

Regular visits to the dentist are essential