Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving teeth, and Dr. James A. Penney and his trusted team have been saving smiles in Little Rock for 20 years! If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, talk to an experienced endodontist to see what steps you can take to save your natural teeth–because preserving your natural teeth helps you retain your ability to efficiently chew, bite normally, and maintain your natural appearance.
To prevent damage, disease, or infection from affecting your teeth, it is important to maintain good oral health practices. Most people know that practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing is necessary for tooth health, but did you know the food you eat can also impact the health of your teeth?
The nutrients provided by our diet can play a pivotal role in strengthening or repairing tooth enamel and gum tissue. On the other hand, some food and drinks can lead to enamel erosion, tooth decay, and even cracked teeth. Learning about the benefits and harms of certain foods can help you choose a balanced diet that contributes to your overall oral health.
Foods that Benefit Oral Health
Foods that are high in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D, and C, or foods that increase the flow of saliva can all benefit your teeth and gums. Below are the ways incorporating each into your diet can improve your oral health with some examples of good food sources.
Calcium and phosphorus-rich foods strengthen teeth and fortify enamel:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Leafy greens
- Nuts
- Beans
- Lean meat
Consuming Vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium:
- Fatty fish
- Eggs
Vitamins A and C improve the health of your gums:
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Dark leafy greens
- Broccoli
- Peppers
Fibrous foods or foods that stimulate saliva production act as natural mouth cleaners, brushing harmful bacteria off the surface of the teeth:
- Apples
- Celery
- Carrots
- Sugar-free gum
These foods can improve oral health and actually counteract the negative impact of harmful foods.
Foods that Impair Oral Health
Foods that are acidic, sugary, sticky, or hard can all lead to damage of your teeth and gums if not consumed in moderation. Below are the foods that can negatively impact your oral health.
Acidic food and drink can lead to enamel erosion which causes tooth sensitivity and can ultimately cause tooth decay:
- Soft drinks
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes
- Red wine
Sugars can interact with the plaque on teeth to produce acid that erodes enamel, as well as attracting bacteria that can lead to gum disease:
- Candy
- Dessert
- Soda
- Foods with ingredients that end in ‘ose’ like glucose, sucrose, and fructose
Sticky foods cling to the surface of teeth, providing more opportunity for harmful bacteria, while hard foods can cause physical damage like cracks:
- Hard candy
- Chewy candy
- Some nuts
- Dried fruit
Eating too many of these foods can wear down your teeth and gums, and ultimately lead to damage, disease, or infection. By consuming these foods in moderation, or eating them at mealtime in conjunction with foods that benefit oral health, you can maintain balance and protect your teeth.
How Do I Know if a Tooth has Cracked?
If your tooth enamel has eroded and the surface of your tooth has weakened, you can be more susceptible to cracks. Cracked teeth can present as pain while chewing, temperature sensitivity, or release of biting pressure. Cracks can be superficial, known as craze lines, or more severe, migrating towards the root. Chewing on cracked teeth can cause the pulp within to become irritated. Some cracks are treatable with a root canal, so if you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity and are worried you may have a crack, don’t wait to seek dental care.
An experienced endodontist like Dr. Penney can evaluate your tooth and work diligently to provide treatment. The sooner you seek care, the better the chances of saving your natural tooth. With 24/7 answering service, Dr. Penney’s office can address your concerns quickly. Maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent cracked teeth and further disease or infection, but if you have pain or sensitivity, call 501-227-7668 today to schedule an appointment!
