FYI

As a dental professional, you’re well aware of the importance of preventive care in maintaining oral health. But did you know that besides brushing, flossing and regular dental exams, snacking can also be a form of preventive care?

Let us elaborate: certain foods contain vitamins and nutrients that can help both preserve oral health and prevent serious issues down the line. These nutrients include classic power players like calcium and vitamin D, as well as immunity-boosting antioxidants, inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids and more.

In honor of National Nutrition Month, let’s take a look at which nutrients support healthy teeth and gums, and how your patients can easily incorporate these nutrients into their diets. By educating your patients on the connection between what they eat and their long-term oral health, you can help them make dietary decisions that satisfy both their teeth and their taste buds.
 

How daily diet impacts oral health

According to the American Dental Association, diet and oral health are inextricably linked. Nutrition affects the health of the mouth, and the health of the mouth affects patients’ nutrient intake. Patients with significant tooth decay, gum disease or missing teeth may have trouble chewing certain foods. This, in turn, may lead to a restricted diet, greater risk of malnutrition and other potentially serious health problems.

Supporting oral health through diet goes beyond simply telling your patients to limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. To really bolster the health of teeth and gums, it’s important that your patients eat a diet packed with fruits, vegetables and whole grains to support their oral health at the cellular level.
 

Foods to recommend to your patients

When speaking with your patients about nutrition and oral health, recommend foods known to help strengthen immunity, fight bacteria and reduce inflammation:
 

• Dairy products rich in calcium and vitamin D help promote healthy teeth and bones and reduce the risk of tooth loss. Vegan and lactose-free options include leafy greens, beans, nuts and fortified alternative milks, which are also packed with smile-supporting calcium.
• Crisp, raw fruits and vegetables help clean plaque from teeth and freshen breath. So, let your patients know that every time they snack on apples, carrots or celery, they’re also taking care of their teeth.
• Fresh cranberries interrupt the bonding of oral bacteria before they can form damaging plaque. This makes them the perfect treat for supporting a healthy mouth.
• Foods high in antioxidants help protect gums and other tissues from cell damage and bacterial infection. Antioxidant-rich foods include: berries, citrus, tomatoes, kale, broccoli, nuts, sweet potatoes and even green tea.
• Foods rich in folic acid promote a healthy mouth and support cell growth throughout the entire body. This member of the vitamin B family can be found in leafy greens and brewer’s yeast.
• Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and support bone density, among a host of other health benefits. Salmon, tuna, mackerel, avocado, tofu, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds are all rich in omega-3’s.
   

More food for thought

Above all, educate your patients about the power of preventive care. Let them know that small steps that they take every day — like choosing foods that support their teeth and gums — can have a big impact on  their long-term oral and overall health.

Looking for more resources to share with your patients? Check out these nutrition articles from Delta Dental for more on the science behind diet and oral health, healthy meal suggestions and more.