Keeping an eye on what you put into your body is important for maintaining the health of your teeth. The food and drink we consume can directly affect our teeth, by either helping to keep them strong or cause problems. Here are some tips on taking care of your oral health.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for oral health. Calcium is one of the best minerals you can consume for keeping your teeth strong. Introduce foods that are high in calcium such as dairy products, tofu, soy milk, dark leafy greens, and sardines.
Other minerals like phosphorus and potassium offer great oral benefits too. Phosphorus appears in many dairy products, fish, nuts, and beans, so by consuming calcium-rich foods, you are half-way there already! Great sources of potassium are bananas and sweet potatoes. Not to forget, vitamins A, C, and K. In addition, vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium.
Reduce Consumption of Sugar and Acid
Reducing the intake of sugar is essential when considering how we can change our diet for oral health benefits. It is important to get sugar eating habits under control as it can weaken tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Sugar should be enjoyed in moderation with a drink of water to wash away any leftover sugar in the mouth.
It is also important to monitor your consumption of carbonated drinks and fruit juices. This is because acid works by weakening the tooth enamel. You should also reduce your intake of teeth staining drinks. The most commonly consumed products are tea, coffee, and red wine.
How to Spot the Difference Between a Chipped Tooth and Tartar
It is vital to practice proper oral care at home. This is done by brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. As well as flossing and using mouthwash. Without proper oral care, plaque can quickly build up and turn into tartar. Tartar cannot be cleaned away at home and only by a dentist during a professional clean.
Most people will not notice that they have tartar on their teeth. But they may notice some flaking or chipping away. This makes it difficult to distinguish between tartar and chipped teeth.
Both tooth enamel and tartar are hard substances and white. So how can you tell the difference between a chipped tooth and buildup of tartar? To help, if you notice a rough area on a tooth, there may be enamel missing. You should schedule a dental appointment. A dentist can then examine your teeth. Your dentist will then either clean or repair your teeth.
Preventing Damage from Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is a common problem. It may not appear to be a big deal, but it can have disastrous effects on your teeth. But it can be difficult to know if you grind your teeth at all.
Signs to Look Out For
If you wake up with jaw pain or toothache, this could be an indication. You may also find your teeth are flat. If your teeth have changed shape, this could be a result of excessive grinding.
If you are a teeth grinder, a mouthguard can help to prevent any further damage. Mouthguards are easily available via your dentist and typically low cost. When you start wearing a mouthguard while sleeping, it may feel odd. However, if it is professionally fitted, you will get used to it. You will soon forget you are even wearing one at all. A professionally fitted mouthguard is important. You should not DIY a mouthguard, as it will be less comfortable.
To schedule a routine dental check-up, call our office today. Are you struggling with tartar build up? Or perhaps a chipped tooth or teeth grinding? Our professional team can help choose the best course of treatment for you.
