How Should We Eat for Dental Health?
Foods considered harmful to dental health are sugary and acidic foods, as well as substances that stick to the teeth and are difficult to clean. It is not necessary to completely eliminate these from the diet, but consuming them in a controlled manner is essential for preventing tooth decay.
The recommended diet for dental health is as follows:
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Sugary, sticky, or acidic foods should be consumed during the three main meals.
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Between meals, hard foods like apples and carrots that help clean the teeth and massage the gums should be eaten.
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If brushing is not possible after consuming sugary or sticky foods, the mouth should be rinsed with water or a glass of water should be drunk.
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After eating sugary foods, placing a piece of cheese in the mouth is extremely important to neutralize the decay-causing effects of sugar.
Have Tooth Decay Rates Increased Compared to the Past?
In developing countries like ours, tooth decay is encountered more frequently compared to the past. The reason for this is the change in dietary habits. In the past, people used to consume harder foods, which naturally helped clean the teeth. Today, with the advancement of the processed food industry, the consumption of such foods has increased. Easily accessible items like biscuits, candy, chocolate, and cola are considered the main culprits behind the rise in tooth decay today, as they stick to the teeth and produce acid.
Which Foods Are Considered Tooth-Friendly?
Protein-rich foods are considered among the most tooth-friendly. These substances, which are the building blocks of our bodies, must be consumed both during tooth development and after the teeth have erupted, for the sake of dental health. Due to its high protein content and its importance in dental health, cheese is especially strongly recommended after consuming sugary foods.
Peanuts, due to the phosphate they contain, are also considered a tooth-friendly snack among types of nuts. In addition, unrefined grains (such as whole grain bread instead of white bread) should be preferred for better dental health.