What You Need to Know About Dental Nutrition: Tips from Drs. Resnick & Rosenfeld

While it is common knowledge that excessive consumption of sugary foods can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, there’s more to dental nutrition than avoiding exorbitant amounts of sweet treats. Did you know that everything that you put into your mouth has some effect on your oral health? At Resnick & Rosenfeld, DDS in Edison, NJ, Dr. Steven J. Resnick and Dr. David S. Rosenfeld help patients of all ages keep their smiles healthy and looking their best through a variety of general dentistry services. One of the most important of these services is patient education regarding dental nutrition.

Dental Nutrition: Aim for the Good, Avoid the Bad

When it comes to preserving the health of your teeth, there is one key fact to remember: Bacteria-laden plaque is your worst enemy. Preventing the formation of plaque is the best possible thing you can do for your teeth, and the foods you eat directly affect the accumulation of this colorless, sticky film. One way to reduce the accumulation of plaque is to fortify your diet with fiber-rich fruits and veggies like celery, apples, and carrots. These help stimulate the flow of saliva, which protects teeth against plaque buildup.

You can also help strengthen your teeth by consuming fewer sodas, energy drinks, and sports beverages. The citric acid and sugars in these popular drinks softens the enamel, making it susceptible to erosion and decay. If you do enjoy one of these beverages, just be sure to rinse with water after, and wait between 30 minutes and an hour to brush your teeth to prevent damaging the enamel.

Additional dental nutrition tips include:

• Avoid foods and drinks with added sugar
• Chew sugar-free gum after eating foods high in acid
• Enjoy some green or black tea, both of which can help kill bacteria in the mouth
• Avoid syrupy, starchy foods that remain in the mouth for extended periods of time
• If you must snack, stick with healthy, nutrient-rich foods like almonds, cheese, yogurt, or a few apple slices

Healthier Mouth, Healthier You

Research has proven time and again that the health of your teeth and gums directly affects your physical health in general. Keeping dental nutrition in the forefront of your mind can help to ensure that you remain healthy, happy, and strong for years to come. If you’d like to learn more about how the foods we eat directly impact the state of our oral health, we’d be happy to talk with you. Contact our office in Edison, NJ today to schedule your consultation with Drs. Resnick and Rosenfeld today. Our team looks forward to welcoming your entire family to our cutting-edge office. We are privileged to serve communities in Edison, Colonia, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Plainfield, Clark, and beyond.