Many people have lost teeth and consequently undergone treatment for dental implants in Richmond because of poor diet choices. Whilst we’re all too aware of the type of foods that ruin our teeth, you mightn’t be aware that there are also foods that we can eat that are good for them. Let’s take a look.
There has been much research to show that antioxidants and other certain nutrients found in foods such as pulses, nuts, vegetables and fruits strengthen our immunity and improve our body’s ability to fight both inflammation and bacteria, both of which are important factors when protecting our gums and teeth. In addition other foods can also have a positive effect on the ability to deal with cavity attacks and plaque build up.
For example:
Dairy products rich in calcium and vitamin D help to promote healthy teeth and bones. Foods such as milk, cheese and calcium enriched juices really can help protect teeth. For those who don’t particularly like milk or cheese then try adding a touch of milk powder to other dishes to get your daily calcium intake. Cheese can also unleash bursts of calcium that sticks to the teeth. This protects the teeth from the constant bombardment of natural acids that can cause decay.
Raw vegetables and crisp fruits aren’t just good for your body, they’re also good for your teeth. Carrots, apples and celery all release bursts of water which can both freshen breath and help to keep plaque at bay. Vitamin C found in most crisp fruits also helps to strengthen and protect tissue and gums from bacterial infections and cell damage.
Fruits rich in antioxidants such as blueberries, cranberries and goji berries can help to interrupt the bonding of bacteria before they can come together to form plaque.
Many green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach can also help to keep a mouth healthy as they contain amongst other nutrients, folic acid. As a member of the vitamin B family it promotes cell growth and can therefore help to maintain healthy gums.
It’s all in the timing!
If you want to avoid the dilemma of whether or not to have a dental implant in Richmond or another form of tooth replacement then it isn’t just about what you eat. Curiously it’s also about how and when you eat. For example foods that take a long time to chew, or that are held in the mouth such as a boiled sweet, tend to hold sugar against the teeth longer than other foods. Also, although many crisp raw fruits are good for you, they also contain acid. Tests have shown that if people eat fruit with a meal as opposed to snacking on them periodically throughout the day it’s better for their teeth. The reason is that the body produces more saliva at meal times and as such it’s more likely to wash the acid away quicker and easier.
For those who have missing teeth, then don’t despair. Here at Sheen Dental we’ve successfully fitted many dental implants in Richmond over the years and as such know just how to give your mouth a permanent form of teeth replacement that you’ll be proud of. Visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk or contact us on 020 8876 5277 to discuss your options.