Did you know that your diet is just as important for your teeth and gums as it is for your general health?
In order to achieve good dental health, your diet must entail healthy foods and drinks which do not contain starch and sugar. Both starch and sugar react to the bacteria which reside in your mouth to produce acid, which attacks your tooth enamel causing decay, erosion and potential tooth loss. Reducing your intake of sugary and starchy drinks and snacks will help to maintain your optimal oral health, aiding in the prevention of common dental diseases.
An important factor in helping to fight tooth decay is the addition of fluoride to our Australian water supply. Fluoride acts as a barrier around your teeth which fights the bacteria that tries to weaken the enamel leading to tooth decay. For this reason, it is important to rinse with water after each meal in order to practice prevention.
Tips to help prevent dental disease:
- Always attend your routine checkups.
- Use a fluoridated toothpaste
- Drink lots of water
- Offer milk or water to children.
- Choose healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, vegetables, yogurt or cheese.
- Limit the consumption of sugary food or drinks (for example: soft drink, sports drinks, vitamin water, cordial, fruit juices, energy drinks.)
- Limit the intake of acidic foods or drinks (for example: fruit juices, wine, artificially sweetened drinks)