How to Improve Your Oral Health With Better Nutrition Choices

You already know that the food you eat has a major impact on your overall health. However, your nutrition choices also impact your oral health. As you look ahead to the new year, it’s a great time to evaluate your dietary habits and make changes to support better dental hygiene. We wanted to share how food affects your smile and ways to improve what you eat to improve your oral health in 2024.

How Diet Impacts Dental Health 

Certain foods and eating patterns can wreak havoc on your dental health. Foods high in sugar feed the bacteria in your mouth that produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Sticky foods like dried fruit, candy, and even starchy options like bread can linger long on your teeth, which increases your risk for cavities. Acidic foods and drinks also promote enamel erosion. 

On the other hand, crunchy fruits and vegetables can help clean teeth naturally. Some nutrients are especially important for oral health. Calcium provides the building blocks for strong teeth, while vitamin C aids in connective tissue formation. Vitamin D also supports calcium absorption for tooth preservation. There are antioxidants in many colorful fruits, vegetables, and teas that may limit gum inflammation and disease. 

Tips for Improving Nutrition for Better Dental Health 

Luckily, it isn’t complicated to change up your nutrition choices. Plus, by making some simple changes to your diet, you can expect to reap the rewards when it comes to your dental hygiene routine. Here are some practical tips for eating to support oral health in the new year: 

  • Cut down on sugary foods and beverages, such as soda, candy, baked goods, and sugary cereals.
  • Limit constant snacking, which gives cavity-causing bacteria more opportunities to produce enamel-eroding acid.
  • Increase your intake of crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery, which can all help clean your teeth.
  • Choose calcium-rich products, whole grain breads, leafy greens, and lean proteins for tooth-supporting nutrients.
  • Make sure water is your primary source of hydration, instead of overconsuming acidic drinks like juice, coffee, and alcohol.
  • Be mindful of dried fruits and starchy snacks, which can stick to your teeth. If you do indulge, follow up by rinsing with water.
  • See your dentist twice yearly for cleanings and exams to monitor and improve oral health.

Adjusting your diet to improve your oral health is a positive resolution for the new year. By combining proper nutrition with daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups, you will set yourself up for a healthier smile as you head into 2024. Plus, if you struggle with harmful habits, such as teeth grinding, we can help. Your dentist can create a custom oral appliance that acts as a cushion between your teeth. It eliminates the risk of further dental damage. 

Another way to get inspired to prioritize your smile’s condition is with cosmetic dentistry. Even a simple teeth whitening can get you inspired to take better care of your teeth in the new year. 

Want more personalized tips on how to improve your oral hygiene? Or to discuss ways to make your smile look its best?

Call Bridgetown Dental today at 503-809-4742 for an appointment in Portland, OR. You can also online.