Nutrition: Food that's good for your oral health

Simply by improving your diet, you may be able to prevent two of the most common diseases of modern civilization: tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Ongoing research indicates that antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts may improve the body’s ability to fight bacteria and inflammation, all of which can help protect the teeth and gums.

Preserve your smile by eating a well-balanced diet. Choose foods from the four basic food groups:

• fruits and vegetables
• grains (including breads and cereals)
• milk and dairy products
• meat, chicken, fish or beans

Here are some other tips:

• Calcium and vitamin D supplements are known to decrease the risk for tooth loss in the elderly. Ask your physician or dentist for proper dosages.
• Keep your mouth moist by drinking lots of water. Saliva protects both hard and soft oral tissues.
• Avoid soft, sweet, sticky foods, such as cakes, candy and dried fruits (other than raisins); they promote tooth decay.
• When you eat crackers, cookies and chips, eat them as part of your meal. (For example, eat cheese with crackers.) Combinations of foods neutralize acids in the mouth and inhibit tooth decay.
• Ask your dentist if you’re not sure how your diet may affect your oral health.