Nutrition tips for a radiant smile

These eating habits taste like our teeth

02/17/2015

Extensive and careful cleaning units are still the top priority for long-lasting dental health. However, certain eating habits and foods can also help to create a healthy and radiant smile. „In addition to the nutrients contained, the texture and consistency of the food also play a major role“, knows Dr. med. dent. MSc. MSc. Thomas Jung, Head of Dr. Ing. Jung Dental Clinic in Pfungstadt. He explains how everyday dental care can be supported by simple tips.

Teeth love cheese and crunchy food
Nutritional constituents or substances occurring in saliva such as proteins deposit on our teeth every day, forming a bacterial deposit that can trigger tooth decay and periodontal disease. Hard foods, such as nuts, apples or carrots, help dissolve the stubborn layer and reduce bacterial growth between the morning and evening plasters. „The required vigorous chewing strongly stimulates the salivation and thus helps the teeth to clean themselves“, explains Dr. Young. In addition, the chewing friction releases part of the lining. The consumption of cheese also compensates for the bacteria-induced calcium deprivation. Fat contained in it surrounds the teeth like a protective coat, and at the same time supplies it with the nutrient it contains.

Rinse once, please
Drinking a lot is healthy. However, the same applies to the teeth: it depends on the species. If you drink a few sips of mineral water after each meal, you will wash away most of the leftover food in your mouth, thus reducing the formation of bacteria. While green and black tea with their contained tannins inhibit the growth of caries-causing bacteria and thus prove tooth-friendly, fruit juices or fruit teas often have a harmful effect on our oral cavity. Dr. Jung warns: „When consumed daily, the acid contained in them permanently attacks the natural protective mantle, our enamel.“ To prevent damage, it helps to rinse your mouth with lukewarm water after acidic drinks or meals. Brush and toothpaste should be used at the earliest half an hour later so as not to irritate the irritated enamel. Anyone who still likes lemonade or juice should drink the glass rather quickly instead of distributing it throughout the day.

Protect saliva
„Those who do not want to play easily with the pro-inflammatory bacteria in the oral cavity and do not want to risk gum disease - such as the periodontitis that frequently occurs - strengthen their immune system and the antioxidant effect of saliva better“, so Dr. Young. For this, the organism requires above all zinc and vitamin C. The former is found especially in meat, milk and cheese again. Paprika, citrus fruits and cabbage in turn contain the defense system-strengthening vitamin C. Tomatoes, spinach and ginger also protect our teeth against bacterial attacks - they have an anti-inflammatory effect.