You can approach tooth protection from two directions: inside and outside. A healthy diet allows strong tooth formation (inside) and good dental care practices help keep tooth surfaces clean, strong and protected (outside.) While no dental program can guarantee a lifetime free of tooth decay or dental issues, smart snacking (inside) and twice-yearly preventive exams and cleanings (outside) are some of the steps you can take to protect your smile in all directions. Ask your dentist for more inside and outside habits for tip-top dental health.
Protecting Teeth from the Inside
The hard outer layer of your tooth is the enamel. A diet with plenty of calcium and Vitamin D helps promote healthy enamel. Foods such as cheese, milk, yogurt and dark green leafy vegetables all help build strong teeth. Keeping teeth free of gum disease also helps prevent tooth loss, and possible systemic health problems. Leafy greens do double duty, as they are also high in folic acid, particularly recommended for oral health for pregnant women.
Protecting Teeth from the Outside
Brushing and flossing regularly are two key activities that protect teeth. Both of these activities remove food from tooth surfaces before oral bacteria can turn it into harmful plaque, which can then lead to tooth decay. Other “outside” tooth protective measures include:
- Drink plenty of water, to promote adequate saliva production. Tap water usually has fluoride added, for additional tooth protection. When you drink water, each sip rinses food particles and bacteria from tooth surfaces.
- Chew crunchy, not-too-sweet snacks like apples, carrots and celery.
- Don’t bite on hard surfaces such as ice cubes and hard candy.
- Never use teeth on non-food items like fingernails, packaging materials or thread. Tooth fractures and other damage can occur.
- Always wear a mouthguard when participating in sports or activities that could result in a blow to the face.
Good Tooth Care Comes from All Directions
We can be your partner for great tooth care. To schedule an appointment or initial consultation, call Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
