Oral hygiene and healthy eating

Diet and oral hygiene are integral to oral health; if you eat well and take good care of your teeth and gums, the chances of developing an oral health problem are considerably lower.

The importance of oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is really important for good oral health; each time you eat or drink, bacteria enter the mouth and start to collect on the surfaces of the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce harmful plaque acids, which weaken the enamel surfaces of the teeth. When you brush your teeth, you remove the bacteria and food deposits that damage the enamel coating of the teeth, meaning that they are not allowed to collect and cause damage to the teeth.

Using dental floss helps to remove bacteria and small pieces of food, which have become trapped in areas that are hard to reach using a toothbrush; these areas include the gum line and the tiny spaces between the teeth. Mouthwash can also help to remove the bacteria and a good oral hygiene routine will also help to keep your breath smelling clean and fresh.

The part your diet plays

Diet plays an important role when it comes to the health of your teeth and gums; eating healthily and brushing your teeth on a regular basis helps to keep the teeth strong and prevents them from being worn down by harmful bacteria. A healthy diet should include plenty of fruit and vegetables, as they are high in vitamins, nutrients and minerals. Eating foods that are high in sugar and drinking fizzy, acidic drinks can contribute to tooth erosion, which occurs when the protective enamel surfaces of the teeth are worn down. The enamel coating helps to protect the rest of the tooth from harmful bacteria; once the enamel starts to wear, it is almost impossible to build it back up and the tooth is left exposed to decay and erosion.

Calcium is important for healthy teeth and bones; it is particularly for children to take in plenty of calcium as their teeth and bones are still developing. Foods that are rich in calcium include milk, cheese and yoghurt.

For more information about oral hygiene visit dentist stafford where you can learn about taking care of your teeth. You can also learn of cosmetic treatments like dental implants stafford, orthodontic treatments like Invisalign and many more.