Did you know? March is National Nutrition Month. Having proper nutrition isn’t just good for your body – it’s good for your teeth too! For example, if you consume a lot of sugary foods and drinks, you could be putting yourself at risk for tooth decay. In fact, tooth decay is the single most chronic childhood disease, but it is luckily 100% preventable with proper oral hygiene and nutrition.
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay occurs when plaque comes into contact with sugar on the teeth. This causes the acid to attack the teeth, breaking down the enamel and eventually causing decay. Left untreated, tooth decay can be extremely painful, lead to other health problems, and tooth loss.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Nutrition
Luckily, as previously mentioned, tooth decay is 100% preventable. One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay is to ensure you’re following proper nutrition protocols, as outlined by the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion. But it’s not just about what you eat when it comes to your oral health – it’s about when you eat and how you eat as well. Below are some tips we recommend to keep your mouth healthy this National Nutrition Month.
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat a variety of foods
- Ensure you’re getting enough calcium each day
- Limit the number of snacks you eat throughout the day
- If possible, try brushing your teeth immediately after eating or drinking something full of sugar
- Avoid coffee and soda when possible
