Many people feel like they simply aren’t achieving the results they want by brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash alone. These at-home oral hygiene steps are crucial to maintaining a strong smile, but sometimes patients need an extra boost to achieve optimal oral health; that’s when it’s time to take a look at your diet.
Everything that we eat and drink ends up coating our teeth. When you think about it that way, it makes sense that our diets can make or break our smiles. Keep reading to get more information from our Glendale dentists.
The first thing to understand is the simple fact that oral bacteria love sugar; sugar allows bacteria to grow and multiply. That is why it is highly recommended that you limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks. When you do indulge, try to rinse your mouth with water right after you finish eating or drinking.
You also want to be mindful about how and when you consume acidic substances. Acidic things, like fruit juice, for example, temporarily soften enamel and leave it more susceptible to damage and erosion. That is why you want to wait to brush your teeth for at least 20 to 30 minutes after you eat or drink something acidic.
One of the best things that you can do for your smile is to drink a lot of water throughout the day. Saliva is your body’s natural way of neutralizing bacteria and re-mineralizing dental enamel. If you are dehydrated, your body is not able to produce saliva. And, in fact, taking a sip of water triggers your body to produce saliva, so you want to drink plenty of water to combat bacteria and bad breath.
If you have specific questions about how your diet affects your smile, you can always contact our Glendale dentists to learn more and schedule a personal consultation. We look forward to speaking with you!