Nutrition and diet play a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being. As an integrative dental office, we believe that maintaining overall health and dental health requires looking at the foods we eat because the mouth is the gateway to the entire body and doesn’t exist as a separate entity from the body.

When we place food into our mouths is the instant in which change starts to occur. Foods rich in sugar and carbs turn to acids and change the PH of your saliva. A PH of 7 is considered neutral and optimal. When your ph is changed, then the demineralization of your teeth begins to occur.

Here are some pieces of advice to help you improve your oral health through proper nutrition and diet:

Limit sugary and acidic foods: Try to eat them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Embrace a balanced diet: Include a variety of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats.
Increase water intake: Water helps rinse away food particles, reduces the acidity in your mouth, and keeps you hydrated.
Balance the PH of your saliva: Saliva is a natural buffer that will help your mouth get back to a neutral PH when eating acidic or sugary foods, When your mouth stays in a neutral or alkaline range then your mouth is less likely to grow bacteria and help combat gum disease and oral infections.
Consume foods rich in calcium and phosphorus: These minerals are essential for strengthening tooth enamel and maintaining strong teeth. High quality dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and fish are good sources of calcium and phosphorus.
Consider probiotics and naturally fermented foods: Probiotics found in naturally fermented foods balance bacteria in your mouth and gut, promoting better overall oral health. Kimchi, yogurt, and sauerkraut are a few good ones to add to your diet.
Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption: Both tobacco and excessive alcohol intake can lead to various oral health problems, including gum disease and oral cancer. Minimize or eliminate their use for the sake of your oral and overall health.
Seek professional advice: Talk to your integrative dentist or a registered dietitian to create a personalized diet plan tailored to your oral health needs and overall wellness goals.
Practice good oral hygiene: While nutrition is vital, it cannot replace good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with mineralizing toothpaste and floss daily.

The relationship between nutrition and oral health is interconnected. A healthy diet not only benefits your teeth and gums but also contributes to your overall health and well-being. Making conscious and informed choices about your nutrition can lead to a brighter smile and a healthier you.

Nutrition’s Role in Dental AND Overall Wellness