At the moment, your Overland Park, KS, dentist is only offering emergency care on a case-by-case basis to protect the smiles of patients in our community. Since we’re all spending more time indoors, and unable to attend preventive visits for checkups and cleanings, taking steps to care for smiles from home is vital, and that includes what we choose to eat and drink!
The Link Between Poor Diet and Poor Oral Health
Did you know our snack and meal choices could impact the health of our smiles? When we consume foods high in sugar and starch, this leaves behind stray particles, usually clinging to the teeth or trapped between them. if we don’t brush and floss properly this allows them to stay in place and be consumed by bacteria. Over time, the process of breaking down these particles coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque buildup. Plaque could eventually weaken tooth enamel and inflame the gums, leading to higher risks of both tooth decay and gum disease. Beverages high in sugar could also be a problem too!
Healthy Snacks and Drinks
If you need a snack, resist the urge to stock up on sugary options, like candies, snack cakes, chips, or even seemingly healthy choices, like dried fruit (which clings to teeth and has a high sugar content). Instead, consider fresh fruit or vegetables, which not only contain essential vitamins and nutrients, but could also help scrub away plaque as you consume them. Sugar-free gum, low-fat yogurts, cheeses, and nuts also offer healthier choices for your smile.
Try to avoid sodas, energy drinks, and sports drinks too, as these contain lots of sugar and acids that could weaken enamel. Instead, drink more water, which is sugar and acid-free and hydrates you at the same time! If you do feel the need for something sweet, follow it up with a glass of water to help rinse away particles.
Brushing and Flossing
A healthier diet, combined with better brushing and flossing, can help limit how much plaque accumulates until we can once again clean your teeth and remove the buildup completely. You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, once when getting up and again before going to bed. You also need to floss thoroughly up and down each side of every tooth as well. If you have any questions about caring for your smile, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Protecting Your Oral Health?
Our team understands that picking the right foods, and routine homecare, is crucial for improving smile health. To learn more about taking steps to ensure better oral health, then schedule your consultation by calling Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, today at 913-381-2600.