The mouth is home to billions of bacteria. While many of these bacteria are healthy, there are some that are harmful to your dental health.

If you consume the wrong foods, you will essentially “feed” the harmful bacteria. This can result in the development of a thin film of material that’s latches plaque onto the teeth.

When certain ingredients mix with plaque, an acid forms that can break down the enamel. As time progresses, this can lead to tooth decay and the natural breakdown of all supporting structures.

Learn more about what you can add to your diet to prevent this and a little information on what you should not eat.

The Best Foods

There are several optimal foods that will provide a boost to your dental health. In short, anything that is good for you is good for your mouth. For example, foods that are rich in fiber are considered to be ideal.

Fiber is a substance that actually aids in the cleansing of the teeth, optimize saliva flow, and provide a natural defense against tooth decay and the development of gum disease.

Calcium is another productive ingredient that should be consumed. This helps to restore minerals directly to the teeth. It also aids in the restructuring of tooth enamel.

Items that contain polyphenols – such as green tea – help to prevent the growth of bacteria. Foods and drinks that contain fluoride are also considered to be healthy.

The Worst Foods

Many ingredients exist that are detrimental to the health of your mouth. For example, items that dry your mouth such as salt and alcohol could result in the breakdown of enamel and the growth of bacteria.

Carbonated drinks can break down the enamel on the teeth and harm the soft tissues of the mouth. Anything that contains sugar, starches, and even a lot of carbohydrates can result in the development of acids that will eat away at the teeth and the soft tissues.

Again, if the item you are considering consuming is not considered to be healthy for the body, it is not considered to be healthy for the mouth, either.

Protecting Your Dental Health

To properly protect your teeth, your gums, and all of the supporting features of your mouth, you should be certain that you brush a minimum of twice a day with a soft bristle toothbrush.

Toothpaste and mouthwash products should contain fluoride. And if possible, avoid dental care products that contain alcohol. Flossing should be done once daily.

You should make certain that you consume a large amount of water on a daily basis. Aside form keeping you hydrated, this will flush away potentially dangerous debris from the mouth.

It is critical that you see a dental professional at least twice a year. If you are interested in setting up an appointment with a periodontist in Wichita, you may contact us here at Implant & Perio Specialists today. Simply give us a call at: 316-683-2525