How to Eat for Healthier Teeth

Eating healthfully can prevent plaque buildup in the mouth, which leads to a variety of other oral problems.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Food/exercise Journals
• Sugar-free Candy
• Dental Floss
• Mouthwash
• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Dental Floss
• Toothpaste

1. Keep a log of what you eat, including chewing gum and candy, for seven days.

2. Compare this to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food pyramid and learn to balance your diet.

3. Cut down on snacks to limit acid attacks on your teeth.

4. Reduce consumption of sugar, which leads to tooth decay.

5. Opt for sugar-free candy, breath mints and cough drops.

6. Eat teeth-friendly foods such as cheese and peanuts.

Tips & Warnings

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly to help combat plaque buildup.
• Visit your dentist regularly.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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on 6/30/2006 Eat fruits, such as strawberries, pears or plums, which contain xylitol. Xylitol is a 5-carbon sugar that slows down the production of plaque.

on 11/22/2005 True; candy does rot your teeth. But no one can give it up completely! So opt for sugar free candy and gum. Brush your teeth 2-3 times a day, if not after every meal or snack.

on 11/22/2005 Use a straw when drinking acidic drinks to avoid the acids contact with the tooth enamel. Also, when you chew sugar free gum, it can remove plaque.

Typically avoid washing your mouth with hydrogen peroxide, do so in moderation as it can lead to a hairy tongue.

Calcium is obviously great for all bones, including dental ones. To absorb calcium spend 15 minutes in the sun a day or take a supplement with Vitamin D. Phosphorus and Magnesium are great for teeth health because... thats what your bones are made of.

on 11/22/2005 Brushing can remove plaque from your teeth, but it does no good to the spaces between your teeth. That's why you have to floss, too! Flossing brings the plaque out from the tiny spaces between your teeth! Put the floss between two of your teeth and try rubbing the floss on one side of the one tooth and then on the other side of the other tooth. It helps to remove plaque. Also, don't use an electric toothbrush before you're sixteen years old, it wears off your enamel and then your teeth will become very sensitive when you get older.

on 11/22/2005 Smoking and drinking soft drinks (such as Coke) can make your teeth yellow. I went to my dentist and he told me that my teeth are very yellow just from drinking soft drinks! I don't even smoke.