March is National Nutrition Month! We all know that maintaining a healthy diet is good for our bodies and brain function, but nutrition is also the key to optimal oral health. Here’s a few ways that eating healthy and practicing good nutrition habits benefits our smiles:
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Fruits and vegetables help clean plaque and freshen breath!
Crisp fruits and raw veggies like celery and carrots help to clean plaque from your teeth, freshening your breath in the process. You know what they say… an apple (and some carrots!) a day keeps the doctor away! Make sure to include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet for a healthy body AND a healthy smile.
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Antioxidants help protect our gums and tissues from damage.
Antioxidant-rich foods are good for inflammation and for preventing any damage to our tissues and gums. A lot of foods that are high in antioxidants are also high in Vitamin C, which is one of the best vitamins out there for preventing any kind of bacterial infection or cell damage. Broccoli, potatoes, and spinach are some of the most antioxidant-rich foods that exist.
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Calcium-rich foods fortify tooth enamel.
Cheese, milk, and yogurt are the “big three” when it comes to calcium-rich foods to include in our diet. Cheese contains casein, a protein that has proven useful in protecting tooth enamel. Milk helps to lower acid levels in the mouth, preventing tooth decay and bad breath. Yogurt’s high calcium content and probiotics fight cavities and gum disease. Including these three calcium powerhouses in your diet is essential for your oral health.
So, is diet important for oral health?
Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your oral health. Start incorporating more fruits and vegetables, antioxidants, and calcium-rich foods into your diet and you’ll see the difference in your smile.
Take care of your oral health and your body through a healthy and diverse diet. Make a commitment to yourself this month for your overall health!Call ustoday to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stante and learn more about how you and your teeth can benefit from a healthy diet and lifestyle.