Proper nutrition is absolutely vital for overall good health. We have all heard about the importance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals--their benefits, their roles in our body's proper functioning, and so on.
Unfortunately, however, some of the foods and drinks that are so wholesome can end up doing some damage to your teeth and gums. You need to know what those are and how to neutralize their effects so that your oral health does not suffer.
We have probably all heard of acids and how destructive they can be on the enamel, which is the protective layer that shields your teeth from decay and damage. But where are these acids coming from? Well, one of the main sources is virtually any type of citrus. Lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and so on.
You should not entirely avoid these Vitamin C-rich foods by any means, but you can make substitutions in some instances. For example, I love lemon pepper-flavored chicken strips, but instead of marinating with lemon juice, I opt for a low-acid liquid or powdered additive that really draws out the lemony zing. The same can be applied when making zesty Chinese orange chicken.
Another culprit is a major staple in many Americans' diets--coffee. Not only is coffee high in the acids that can strip enamel, it is also notorious for staining teeth, often causing a yellowish discoloration. The same can be true of tea derived from tea leaves (herbal tea is typically a nonissue).
Cut down on the coffee and turn to healthier alternatives to give you a boost in the morning. Sugar free energy drinks are my beverage of choice, but caffeine is not always the best route to go. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and drink enough water to keep your energy levels high and keep your mouth clean.
Antioxidant-rich dark fruits like blueberries, cranberries, and pomegranates--whether in whole or juice form--can also be very detrimental to your smile's whiteness. Again, that does not mean you should sidestep these nutritious options.
Regardless of your weakness, make sure that you are using high-quality toothpaste and mouthwash that will refortify your mouth's defenses against enamel erosion and plaque buildup. Make sure that you have a regular discussion with your dentist about your specific concerns. He or she can recommend the best products for maintaining a healthy, white smile.
Don't forget to maintain good flossing habits. Virtually any particle of food can get trapped between the teeth, but flossing should certainly be a priority after consuming foods like corn on the cob and apples.
Author Resource:-
Parmer Lane Family Dentistry (http://www.keepaustinsmiling.com/) is a dentist in Austin TX led by Austin, TX dentists Lucinda Garcia, DDS, Tatyana Mokeyev, DDS & Mary Kate Peters, DDS who provide general dentistry, family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and more.
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