Southlake Dentist Suggests Diet Changes to Prevent Cavities

What you eat has a significant effect on your overall health, and it’s no wonder that eating a big, heavy meal at lunchtime can make you feel sluggish for the rest of the day. Make smart dietary choices and you’ll notice a difference in your waistline… and in your smile? It’s true. Eating a variety of nutritious foods helps you enjoy better dental health, too. But you may not be aware of the biggest offenders for healthy teeth and gums — like your favorite granola bar or gluten-y pasta. Your Southlake dentist has some suggestions for small changes that can make a big difference for your smile.

Switch Out Modified Grains for Whole Grains

The next time you find yourself at the grocery store, take a closer look at the type of grains you’re filling your cart with. You or your children may prefer the taste of white bread and pasta over the whole grain variety, but choosing these modified grains throws the pH balance of your saliva out of whack and can cause bad bacteria to flourish over the good. Because they have not been modified or stripped down in any way, whole grains are more complex than the “white” grain varieties — and that structure is harder to break down, keeping the contents of your saliva in perfect balance.

Tip: Look for the word “whole” before grain in your breads, pasta, crackers, and other wheat products. Be aware that sometimes refined grains hide under healthy-sounding titles like seven grain, healthy oat, etc.

Think Twice About Gluten

People who have gluten sensitivities should be aware of the role that gluten has on tooth enamel. Studies have shown that tooth sensitivity and decay are more common in people who are do not properly process gluten, as it “causes the body to produce an immune reaction against one of the main proteins responsible for producing enamel on the teeth.” (Source: Gluten Free Society)

If you are gluten-intolerant, or if celiac disease runs in your family, be aware of the risk of increased tooth decay with repeated exposure to gluten. Visit Dr. Thomas to discuss the need to go gluten free for your oral and overall health.

Sneak These Nutritious Items Into Your Diet

So what can you do to improve your and your family’s dental health, by way of your diet? Consider adding these items to your cart the next time you’re at the market.

• Nuts: walnuts, almonds, dried soybeans
• Whole grains: breads, pasta, crackers*
• Quinoa, sprouted rice
• Fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark, leafy greens
• Yogurt/kefir
• Unsweetened, low-fat soy milk

* for people who do not have gluten sensitivities

Schedule an Appointment Today!

In addition to maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet, make sure you and your loved ones are visiting the dentist in Southlake twice annually. Regular preventive care is a crucial aspect of healthy teeth and gums. Request an appointment at Enclave Dental today!