Your smile is designed to last for a lifetime with the right care, like committing to your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. Did you know the recipe to perfect oral health involves more than just your toothbrush and dental team? Your diet is also essential to a healthy mouth. Here are a few of the most vital vitamins and nutrients your smile needs to thrive.
Nutrition and Your Dental Health
Besides your oral hygiene, the foods you eat significantly influence your oral health. It can affect the occurrence and progression of common dental conditions, like gum disease, tooth decay, and enamel erosion. A balanced diet is necessary to nurture a healthy smile that can last for many years. It’s best to consume foods that contain plenty of vitamins and minerals, including:
Calcium
You know calcium is crucial for strong bones, but it’s also necessary for your teeth. It helps keep your enamel and jaw healthy. If you don’t consume adequate amounts, you’ll increase your risk of tooth decay. It’s best to add good sources of calcium to your diet, like low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps stimulate saliva flow to neutralize harmful bacteria in your mouth in between brushing and flossing. This lessens the risk of common issues, like cavities. In addition, vitamin A keeps the soft tissues in your mouth healthy. You can support the adequate intake of the vitamin by eating melons, spinach, or sweet potatoes.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports a strong immune system to help your body fight off harmful invaders that can lead to an infection. Besides colds and illness, it can also ward off the bacteria responsible for gingivitis, a preventable infection in your gum tissue. As the leading cause of tooth loss, you can ensure your gums stay healthy by adding vitamin C to your day. Oranges, uncooked red peppers, and sweet potatoes are tasty sources of the vitamin.
Magnesium
Magnesium makes your teeth more resistant to decay. With 92% of adults having had at least one cavity in a permanent tooth, eating spinach, kale, and dark chocolate can help combat cavities by building strong enamel.
Zinc
Throughout the day, a sticky film called plaque accumulates on your teeth, which hosts bad bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Zinc helps prevent the growth of bacteria and plaque to keep your gum line healthy. Wheat, wild rice, beef, and cheese are excellent sources of zinc for amazing meals and lasting dental health.
Achieve a Healthy Smile
With the right care at home, personalized services from your dentist in Toronto, and nutritious foods, you can achieve lasting oral health. Invest in a bright future through a balanced diet.
About Dr. Kevin Dann
Dr. Kevin Dann strives to provide a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere as he promotes his patients’ dental health. He creates treatment plans that align with your overall wellness. If you need a reputable dentist in the community, contact our office today for an appointment.
