National Nutrition Month & Your Smile
In honor of National Nutrition Month, our Loop dentists in Chicago, Il want to call attention to the importance of an overall healthy lifestyle and the impact that it has on your smile. While we all know the importance of eating and drinking healthy foods for our bodies, it is also important for our smiles! Consuming sugary, sticky and fatty foods leaves you at a higher risk for developing tooth decay. This is the single most common chronic childhood disease.
How Food Impacts Our Teeth
If plaque comes into contact with sugar inside of your mouth, it causes acid to attack your teeth. Sugar is present in soft drinks, pastries, cookies, candies and more. It is important to take the time to read nutrition labels to choose options that are not high in sugar. A lack of overall nutrients also plays a part in the development of oral health issues. Without proper nutrition, the tissues in your mouth aren’t able to resist infections as easily. This may eventually lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
Nutrition Tips for a Healthy Mouth
Always aim to eat a well-balanced diet and limit snacks between meals. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and fat-free dairy foods. If you are hungry between meals, try to pick something healthy such as a fruit or vegetable. More saliva is released during meal times, so the food eaten between meals has more of an effect on your mouth.
Part of a good oral health routine is visiting the dentist on a regular occasion. Call our Loop dentists in Chicago, IL to set up an appointment!