When we think about taking care of our teeth and gums one of the most obvious things to do is see a dentist and brush/floss on a daily basis. But there are a lot of other factors that can determine our oral health. This includes everything from genetics to what we eat and drink. Usually when a dentist mentions diet and beverages we talk about the things you should avoid eating and drinking. Namely, we talk about sodas, fruit juices, and anything high in sugar and acidity. But it is important to also talk about the things that are healthy as well. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of foods and beverages that can strengthen your teeth and gums. But nothing beats seeing a dentist. If you are looking for a dentist in the Chicago area, come schedule a family dental appointment at one of our ten locations.
Why Is Gum Health So Important
Before we talk about how to achieve gum health we want to talk about the importance of gum health. You might wonder why dentists so often talk about flossing and taking care of your gums. Beyond protecting your teeth from decay and tooth loss, taking care of your gums is good for your overall health. One thing that is often overlooked is how mouth health affects the rest of the body. Your mouth is one of the main ways bacteria, infection, and other contaminants can enter your body. Gum health has been linked to both cardiovascular health as well as lung health. Infection in the mouth can spread quickly through the rest of the body. That is why it is important to protect yourself from infection by seeing a dentist, brushing and flossing, and getting the right vitamins and minerals in your diet.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
It cannot be overstated how important fresh produce is to our bodies. Chewing crunchy vegetables like celery or broccoli can be really good for your oral health. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and minerals that strengthen bones, teeth, and tissue throughout the body including in the gums. Centuries ago, one of the most common and most problematic oral afflictions was scurvy caused by a lack of vitamin C. It was common among sailors who would go months without fresh fruits and vegetables. While we rarely need to worry about such a terrible affliction in the modern world, it is important to understand the importance that fresh produce provides our teeth and gums.
Milk & Dairy Products
Almost everyone knows that calcium is linked to strong bones, but it is also linked to strong teeth. Milk and dairy products are a great way to get your daily dose of calcium. A glass of milk, yogurt, or other dairy sources are all great ways to get your calcium.
Sugar-Free Gum
This is not about minerals or vitamins. Sugar-free gum is often recommended by dentists after meals because gum can remove food particles and plaque left behind after a meal. While the most effective way to handle this is to brush and floss, sugar-free gum is a great choice for someone at work or at school after lunch. Granted, it is very important that the gum is sugar-free, otherwise, you are just adding more sugar to your diet.
Schedule Dental Visits in Chicago
While diet and oral habits are beneficial, nothing beats a dental visit. During an exam, your dentist can note any signs of dental issues. And during a cleaning, your dentist can remove plaque and provide treatments like fluoride to make your teeth stronger. If you are interested in dental services for you or a family member give us a call at one of our 10 locations in Chicago.