Good & Bad Foods for Smiles from Family Dentist in Waterbury

You know that eating a well-balanced diet will get you the results you want when it comes to losing or gaining weight. But did you know that the types of foods you eat can also either benefit your teeth or gums or deteriorate them overtime? There is a close connection between good dental health and overall health. Your family dentist in Waterbury wants to share with you how an excellent healthy diet and overall better lifestyle can help you reach your optimal oral health.

Foods That Are Awesome for Your Teeth

·         Cheese

Dairy products are low in acid and don’t damage the enamel (outer layer) of your teeth. Cheese offers the lowest amounts of acid levels compared to sugar-free yogurts or a glass of milk while still offering high levels of calcium. What’s more, chewing cheese increases our natural saliva production.

·         Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

The density of your jawbone plays a huge role in maintaining good oral health. Chewing crunchy raw vegetables and fruits increase your jawbones strength. All the chewing isn’t in vain, crunchy substances disturb plaque from settling and serve as a natural cleaning mechanism. Not to mention, fruits and vegetables give your whole body—even your mouth—the nutrients it needs to stay strong.

·         Berries and Tea

Polyphenol, a micronutrient, is amazing for your whole body. This micronutrient creates natural energy for our bodies and helps our mouth say clean naturally. This can significantly reduce your chance of developing cavities. Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago have shown that people that swish their mouth with black tea containing polyphenol for one minute had less plaque build-up than those who swished their mouths with water. One thing to remember about berries and tea is that these foods do contain dark liquids that stain your teeth with excessive use. A healthy, balanced diet is ideal.

Foods That Hurt your Teeth and Gums

·         Chewy Candies

The stickier the candy, the worse for your mouth. Taffies and caramels may taste yummy but they stick to and in between your teeth for a long time. The sugars deteriorate your teeth and build bacteria in your mouth. Candies that are chewy, sugary, and acidic (sour candies) are a triple whammy of negatives for your dental health and should be avoided altogether.

·         Sodas

It’s no secret that drinking too many sodas will make you gain weight quickly, but how does it affect your teeth? There are astonishing amounts of sugar in just a single can of soda. Drinking too much can turn your mouth into a breeding ground for cavities. Not only that, but dark sodas have staining properties that will discolor your teeth overtime.

Visit Your Waterbury Dentist

Either Dr. Marini or Dr. Mancini are here to help you achieve your best, most healthy smile. If you’ve been indulging in food and drinks that aren’t the best for your oral health, we have the preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care you need. Waterbury Smiles is here to help you achieve the strong smile you’ve always wanted. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.