3 New Years Resolutions For Your Oral Health

When you really get down to it, our teeth play an essential part in processing the food we eat so we need to take care of them. Despite what we may think from time to time, our teeth are not indestructible. What you eat and drink can directly affect the level of tooth decay you experience, so if you’re making a resolution to eat better this year, you can rest assured that your oral health will improve as well. Consider these three tips to keep your teeth protected and pearly white all year long:

1. Calcium is Important for Strong Teeth
   A healthy level of calcium in your diet is not only good for your body, but it’s also good for your mouth as calcium helps strengthen bones and teeth. Consider incorporating a healthy balance of dairy, eggs or leafy green vegetables into your meals regularly.The lack of calcium is known to cause osteoporosis, which isn’t only harmful to bones, but can also cause problems with your teeth and jawbone. Since the jawbone serves as an anchor for your teeth, any damage can create a greater likelihood of tooth loss. In fact, those who have osteoporosis are three times more likely to lose teeth than those who don’t.
2. Limit Beverages/Foods That Can Stain Your Teeth
   Any foods or drinks that have a rich colour like coffee, tea, red wine, berries and balsamic vinegar, can stain your teeth when you consume them in large quantities. Brush your teeth, drink water or rinse your mouth out as soon as you have finished eating or drinking these to remove the pigments that stick to your teeth and cause discolouration.
3. Limit Sticky, Acidic and Sweet Foods
   According to the Canadian Dental Association, sweet treats and drinks have long been linked to cavities and tooth decay so it’s important to enjoy these foods sparingly. Whether it’s energy drinks, cupcakes, soda or chocolate bars, be aware of how often you’re consuming these treats and always make sure to brush and floss afterwards if you can. Remember that store bought items like salad dressings and condiments can also be a sneaky source of sugar so keep an eye on labels when you shop.Sticky foods are also culprits of tooth decay. Foods like honey and dried fruit can stick to your teeth and increase your risk of cavities. The sticker the food, the longer it takes for saliva to break it down when means that it’s more than likely going to end up stuck to your teeth as plaque.

   Acidic foods also rapidly escalate the process of tooth decay which means you should be wary of things like alcoholic drinks, potato chips and coffee. Do keep in mind that there are plenty of healthy acidic foods that can be part of a balanced diet like citrus fruits or tomatoes. When eaten as part of a meal instead of on their own, these foods are less likely to cause harm to your teeth.