Highland Park, MN General Dentist Suggests Foods for Good Oral Health

Written by Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud on Mar 10, 2015

Choosing Foods for Healthy Teeth

Certain minerals and vitamins are required by the body to ensure healthy teeth. Choosing the right foods is especially important during childhood years when teeth are still developing. Calcium and phosphorous are the most important minerals for healthy teeth. Dairy products are a great choice due to their high calcium content, but there are other foods that can supply calcium as well. Fluoride is another important part of keeping teeth strong and warding off decay, but it is required only in small amounts. Normally, the amount of fluoride in toothpaste, rinses, or drinking water is sufficient.

Bacteria that contribute to gum disease are easily fought off if you have a strong immune system, so a healthy diet will also help maintain healthy gums. It’s important to eat enough fruits and vegetables to supply you with minerals, vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. Nutritional guidelines can be provided by your dentist.

Foods to Avoid

In order to maintain healthy teeth and gums avoid or eliminate processed foods, sticky foods, sugars, and foods that are hard to bite or chew. Foods high in sugary content provide a breeding ground for bacteria that cause tooth decay. Foods that are sticky will remain on teeth creating a friendly environment for bacteria to reproduce, causing plaque and tartar to build up.

When you do eat sugary or sticky foods, be sure to brush thoroughly to remove the sugar from the surface of your teeth. This will reduce the possibility that the sugar will result in tooth decay, or allow plaque to build up which can lead to gum disease. Regular visits to the Highland Park, MN General Dentist office will significantly reduce the chance for decay and gum disease to develop.