How Your Diet Affects Your Oral Health

Friday 22nd, September, 2023

Unhealthy dietary choices can lead to dental issues and gum-related complications. To preserve a radiant smile and avoid broader oral health challenges, you must be mindful of what you consume.

In this article, we will cover:

• Foods and beverages that jeopardise your oral health.
• Medical conditions associated with poor dental hygiene.
• How to select tooth-friendly foods and drinks.

The Connection Between Diet and Gum Health

Gum disease is the primary reason adults lose teeth and is often entirely preventable. While smoking is a significant contributor, a diet rich in sugary snacks and sweet beverages can also lead to symptoms of gum disease. Neglecting regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar can result in early signs like gum inflammation, recession, and bleeding.

Diet’s Role in Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is another significant issue that can damage your oral health. Essentially, decay is the deterioration of the tooth, often resulting in cavities. This occurs when plaque acids strip away essential minerals from your tooth enamel. To reduce your risk of tooth decay, it’s necessary to ensure that sugar is not present in your mouth for long periods. If you have sugary snacks, keep them to meal times only.

Acidic Foods and Their Effects

While most people know sugar’s detrimental impact on teeth, the role of acidic foods is less commonly understood. Foods considered healthy, like citrus fruits and berries, can erode tooth enamel due to their low pH levels. At Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre, we often encounter patients unaware of the damage their acidic diet is causing.

Acidic foods should ideally be consumed at meal times only and include:

• Any fizzy carbonated drinks
• Alcoholic drinks
• Fruits and fruit juices

Like sugary foods, ensure you don’t snack on acidic foods between meals.

Continued consumption of acidic foods can trigger a series of adverse effects:

• Weakening of tooth enamel
• Thinning of teeth
• Increased transparency of teeth
• Visible discolouration as the yellow dentin layer becomes exposed
• Ageing appearance of teeth
• Increased sensitivity and cavity risk

For personalised dietary guidance to protect your enamel, we’re here to help. Remember, enamel doesn’t regenerate, making prevention crucial.

The Link Between Dental and Overall Health

Research has shown a strong correlation between poor diet, gum disease, and systemic health issues like heart disease. Plaque below the gum line can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to severe health problems, including heart attacks. Ongoing research is into the relationship between plaque accumulation and neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Choosing Foods for Dental and Overall Wellbeing

A balanced diet is the cornerstone of good oral health. Limit processed foods, which often contain excessive sugar and opt for protein-rich whole foods. Eat well-balanced meals and try to limit snacking in between your main meals.

The Rewards of a Healthy Diet

Eating nutritious foods benefits your teeth, body, and mental health. A balanced diet can reduce plaque bacteria that otherwise lead to tooth decay and other dental problems.

If you haven’t spoken to your dentist about your diet, come for a check-up at Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre, and we will be happy to give you more personalised advice on improving your oral hygiene.