Eating the right foods is just as important as brushing and flossing your teeth when it comes to your oral health. Taking care of your teeth isn’t something you only do at night and in the morning in front of the sink – it’s something you should do all day long.
The Right Snacks
The foods you choose to eat and snack on throughout the day play a big role in keeping your mouth healthy. Dentists recommend avoiding snacking between meals, since this can cause an overproduction of acid in your mouth. Acid is necessary to break down food particles, but too much of it could be harmful to your teeth, causing them to decay quicker.
But if you tend to graze throughout the day, as many people do when they are at home for much of the day, dentists recommend picking snacks that strengthen your teeth. Raw fruits and vegetables, as well as low-fat yogurt and cheese, are smart choices because they are high in calcium and essential nutrients.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Foods rich in vitamin C promote gum health. Instead of reaching for a cookie or cracker, opt for an orange or strawberries instead. Other foods high in vitamin C are spinach, potatoes, broccoli, and tomatoes.
It is also important to remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and to regularly rinse your mouth of pesky food particles and sugars. Experts recommend drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day (known as the 8×8 rule).
If you are caring for a child or baby at home, avoid letting them nurse on juice, formula, or milk for too long, as this constant wash of sugary liquids on their teeth could contribute to decay.
Contact Babylon Dental Care
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to care for your teeth at home while regular cleanings and checkups are on hold. We are still available to serve clients in emergency situations, however, and we are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of each of our patients. Please give us a call at (631) 983-6665 or reach out online if you have a dental emergency.
