Do we all give the same importance to oral health as we do with our other body functioning system? Unfortunately, the answer is ‘NO’ and oral health is generally an ignored factor. It is important to protect our teeth for an overall dental care and also to prevent plaque buildup which is the root cause of cavities. While it is always better to visit an orthodontist in Pune for any oral health issues, we always believe prevention is better. Hence we have enlisted here some food items that are best and worst for your teeth.
The best food for your teeth
Calcium and phosphorus rich food that protects the enamel like milk, cheese, egg, tofu and chicken are good for your teeth. The minerals are restored by these foods. Cheese especially forms a lining and protects the teeth from acid attack. Calcium rich food also aids keeping your bone healthy.
Dietary fiber rich foods are good for teeth as this helps to produce more saliva and thereby helps in preventing decay. Sugars that are converted into acid when contacted with plaque are diluted when consuming food that has high water content. Fruits and vegetables are naturally good in water and fiber content. Hence Carrots, apples, celery, and pears help in preventing plaque and protect teeth and gum. Strawberries, cranberries, green leafy vegetables are some other food items that are good for your oral health.
Studies show that anti-oxidants are good for your body’s immunity system as it helps to fight with bacteria. The bacterial growth that is present in the mouth is taken care of by your immunity system. Generally vitamin C rich foods are loaded with anti-oxidants. But, they are also acidic in nature. Therefore these types of foods should be consumed along with your meal to minimize the acidic level.
Nuts and raisins are very good for teeth. They are rich in calcium and moreover raisins are good in preventing growth of bacteria and help to maintain a healthy gum.
Cavities and other gum diseases are caused by bacterial growth. The growth can be prevented by polyphenols that are present in teas. And a study says that tea prevents bad breath also. Chewing sugar free gum after the meals helps in producing saliva and neutralizes the acid present in the food.
Worst foods for your teeth
The first and foremost food that any dentist will not recommend is sugary food. Food that is loaded with sugar is completely disastrous for dental health as they are root cause for cavity. Chocolate, cookies, cakes and sweets should be avoided to protect your teeth. It is quite understandable that it may be hard to resist the temptation of sugary products, taking it along with a meal may minimize the risk.
Carbonated drinks are considered as biggest enemies for teeth as they damage the enamel for sure. Any type of carbonated drinks like diet drinks and even iced teas are not good for your teeth. Even packed fresh fruit juices contain high amount of sugar. It is better to avoid and any juice can be prepared at home with less or no sugar.
Hard and sticky food items like candies, lollipops, and jellies stick around the teeth for a longer time and causes cavity and thereby damages the enamel. Completely avoid these food items.
Food items that contain starch which are converted into sugar like potato chips, pizzas and pastas, bread are considered as a platform for growth of bacteria.
Apart from following the above instructions, brushing and flossing should be our daily routine. Regular checkup with the best orthodontist, Pune also helps in maintaining healthy teeth and in preventing tooth decay.
Dr. Nitin Oswal
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