Consumption of sugary sodas, sweetened fruit drinks, and non-nutritious snacks are all currently at an all-time high. These foods and beverages generally have little if any nutritional value and over time they can take a toll on your teeth.

Eating habits and food choices among our nation’s youth are important factors that affect how adolescents develop tooth decay. When bacteria and sugar meet in the mouth, acid is produced that attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more. This can eventually result in tooth decay.

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay. Almost all foods, including milk and vegetables, include a particular type of sugar however they are a fundamental part of a healthy diet because many of them also provide essential nutrients. To help control the amount of sugar you consume, read food labels and choose foods and beverages that are low in added sugars. Added sugars often are present in soft drinks, candy, cookies, and pastries.

If your diet lacks specific nutrients, it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to resist infection. Eat a mixture of foods from each of the 5 major food groups to maintain a balanced diet, and reduce the number of snacks you consume. If you do have a snack, choose foods high in nutrition such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or fruit.

Keeping teeth healthy depends on several factors. Flossing once a day, brushing your teeth twice a day, seeing your dentist regularly, and consuming a proper diet all play a big part in the overall health of your teeth and gums. Although foods high in sugar are a particularly common cause of tooth decay, you don’t need to avoid them altogether. Try making them a treat rather than a habit. This will help preserve your teeth for years to come.

Your mouth is your body’s initial point of contact with the nutrients you eat and drink, impacting both your overall health, especially your teeth and gums. The first place to show signs of a poor diet are often in our oral health.

The American Dental Associate approves the suggestions from MyPlate.com, which states that a balanced include:

Consumption of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis, and they should make up half of what you eat every day.
Grains, making sure that half of the grains you eat are whole grains, things like oatmeal, whole wheat bread, and brown rice.
Choose dairy that is low in fat and fat-free dairy foods.
Eat lean proteins such as lean beef, skinless poultry, and fish. Other protein choices include eggs, beans, peas, and legumes, too. You should also try to eat at least 8 ounces of seafood a week.

In addition to a balanced diet, visiting a dentist two times a year for checkups and cleanings will help your dentist monitor your oral health and recommend dietary changes.

If you haven’t practiced the best oral care throughout your lifetime, no worries. Dr. Mauricio Hervas at Implantation Dental Center has the best smile restoration team in South Florida, offering a full range of advanced prosthodontics and periodontal services, including state of the art dental implant placement, single implant crown, implant supported denture and/or bone and soft tissue regeneration. Call the Implantation Dental Center office in Plantation, FL today at (954) 476-0770.