Diet, Oral Health and Wellness

What’s the connection?

Diet and oral health are closely related– A healthy dentition is needed to chew

fresh, whole foods and……

– The foods we choose to eat can directly impact the health of teeth and gums

– The goal is healthy mouths and healthy bodies

To develop a cavity you need…

A susceptible tooth

Decay-causing bacteria (dental plaque)

Carbohydrate (carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen = CHO)

Sugar (CHO) + Bacteria = Acid Production

How do you strengthen the teeth to reduce decay?

How do you reduce bacterial plaque?

Should you eliminate carbohydrates from your diet?

Carbohydrates Fuel Us

Simple CHO-table sugar, honey, fructose

Complex CHO-found in vegetables, whole fruits and whole grains, fiber

The frequency eaten (how often) and the texture (how sticky) of the CHO are important factors to consider when changing the diet to decrease dental decay

All CHO’s can demineralize tooth enamel

Simple Sugar-Sticky Texture

Eat Less Simple Carbohydrates

Eat More Complex Carbohydrates

Developing bones/teeth need calcium rich foods/dairy products

Benefits of Drinking Water

Frequently drinking soda pop and fruit juices can increase the risk for tooth decay

When you are thirsty, reach for water, it is calorie free and may contain fluoride

Water is an essential nutrient needed for total health

Most bottled water does not contain fluoride

Bottled water

Children Need Two Types of Fluoride

Topical (you may need two or more)toothpaste, gels, rinses

(topical sources are not swallowed)

Systemic (you only need one)community water fluoridation or prescription fluoride supplements

(systemic sources are swallowed)

Saliva’s a Good Thing….

Saliva offers natural protection against decay – it neutralizes the acid in the mouth

Individuals with less saliva and “dry” mouths are at more risk for tooth decay

Chewing sugarless gum after a meal or snack does promote saliva production which can help protect teeth

Impact of Eating Disorders

Bulimia Nervosa – frequent vomiting causes enamel erosion due to the acid content, which can lead to tooth decay

Anorexia Nervosa – starvation diets rob teeth and bodies of essential nutrients

A balanced diet and regular exercise is the best combination to maintain a healthy weight

Dental Erosion

To Reduce Dental Decay You Can…

Strengthen the tooth enamel with appropriate fluorides

Protect the chewing surfaces of teeth with dental sealants

Brush & floss daily to remove bacteria

Limit servings of sticky CHO foods and sweet beverages / increase complex CHO

Dental Sealant

Molar on right has no sealant. Dark spot may be start of decay Molar on left has sealant

Make the Connection

A healthy mouth means a healthy body

Eating a balanced diet with a variety of foods will improve oral health and general health

Reducing the frequency of sugary foods and beverages will reduce tooth decay and help maintain a healthy weight