At Ivanhoe Smiles, your trusted dentist Ivanhoe, we understand that maintaining excellent oral health involves more than just brushing and flossing. The foods and drinks we consume play a crucial role in determining the health of our teeth and gums. Proper nutrition serves as a foundation for strong teeth, healthy gums, and overall oral wellness.
Our dental team at Ivanhoe Smiles regularly emphasises the importance of calcium in maintaining strong teeth and jawbones. While dairy products are well-known sources of calcium, there are numerous alternatives available for those following different dietary preferences. Dark leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk, and certain types of fish can provide the necessary calcium for maintaining optimal oral health.
Vitamin D works hand in hand with calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. We recommend spending moderate time in sunlight and consuming foods rich in vitamin D, such as eggs and fatty fish. This essential nutrient helps the body absorb calcium more efficiently, contributing to better dental health.
At Ivanhoe Smiles we discuss the benefits of crunchy fruits and vegetables with our patients. These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also help clean teeth naturally. The action of chewing crisp apples, carrots, and celery stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralise harmful acids and wash away food particles.
Protein-rich foods contribute significantly to oral health by providing the building blocks necessary for tissue repair and maintenance. We recommend incorporating lean meats, fish, legumes, and nuts into daily meals. These foods contain phosphorus, which works alongside calcium to strengthen tooth enamel and support overall dental structure.
Whilst enjoying sweet treats occasionally is perfectly normal, we advise our patients to be mindful of their sugar consumption. Sugary foods and drinks create an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive, leading to tooth decay. Similarly, acidic beverages can erode tooth enamel over time, making teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and decay.
We recommend spacing out meals and snacks throughout the day rather than continuous grazing. This approach gives saliva time to neutralise acids and remineralise tooth enamel. When snacking, choosing tooth-friendly options such as cheese, nuts, or fresh vegetables can help maintain oral health between meals.
Water plays a vital role in maintaining oral health. We encourage our patients to make water their primary beverage choice throughout the day. Drinking water helps wash away food particles, dilute acids, and maintain proper saliva production. Fluoridated tap water provides additional benefits by strengthening tooth enamel and helping prevent decay.
To maintain optimal oral health, at Ivanhoe Smiles we suggest implementing these dietary practices:
At Ivanhoe Smiles, we believe that good nutrition forms an essential part of preventative dental care. By making informed choices about diet and maintaining regular dental check-ups, patients can significantly improve their oral health outcomes. We encourage everyone to consider how their dietary choices affect their dental health and to make positive changes where necessary.
Disclaimer: All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.
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