Apart from your body’s overall health, the quantity and quality of food you consume is also a significant factor of your oral health.Dr. Stephen K. Malone and the rest of his team do not not only provide high-quality dentures in Knoxville but they are also committed to helping individuals achieve and maintain optimum oral health.
How Food Affects Oral Health
The moment you begin food intake, your mouth’s bacteria produces acids which play a huge role in digestion. The longer food stays in between your teeth, the more acids will be produced. Sticky carbohydrates such as potato chips and raisins are excellent examples of food items which could stay in your mouth for hours. This is why these kinds of food types are avoided to prevent tooth decay.
What to Eat for Optimum Oral Health
On a positive note, certain food items can help you achieve optimum oral health and protect your teeth from tooth decay. These food sources help increase the production of saliva which in turn neutralize the acids in your mouth. The following dietary recommendation developed by the U.S Department of Agriculture and Department of Health and Human Services is an excellent advice to follow for optimum oral health:
The guidelines are simple in concept:
-
Eat whole grains daily instead of refined grains. Whole grains include brown rice, oatmeal and whole wheat bread. Refined grains include white bread and white rice.
-
Eat healthier vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables.
-
Eat a variety of fruits.
-
Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, fruits and vegetables.
-
Choose fish, beans, nuts and seeds for some of your protein needs.
-
Choose beverages and foods to moderate your intake of sugars.
-
Choose and prepare foods with less salt.
-
If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation.
-
Aim for a healthy weight and be physically active each day.