Prevention: the best strategy for preserving your health!

Maintaining good dental health is definitely the best way to prevent caries, but our food choices are also important to having a healthy brilliant smile. Most people mistakenly think that sugar causes dental caries. In fact, it is acidity that is responsible for dental decay. In fact, the finger should actually be pointed at the acidity resulting from sugar intake. This means that foods and beverages high in sugar or acidity, such as fruit juices, sodas, coffee, wine and sweets, should be consumed in moderation.

But what foods promote better dental health?

Cheese is the food of choice because it is an excellent source of nutrients (Vitamin D, calcium and phosphorous), which contribute to strengthening dentition and promoting remineralization of your teeth. Its high concentration of lipids and proteins makes it low in acidity and thus non-corrosive of teeth enamel. To make the most of the benefits of cheese, it is best to eat it at the end of the meal. 

In contrast to dried fruits, which are high in sugar and tend to stick to and between teeth, nuts are also a snack of choice. Since they are not caries producing (low in sugar and acidity), the small pieces of nuts that remain caught between your teeth will not cause decay. Like cheese, their high lipid and protein content will help neutralize the acidity in your mouth.

Regardless of how healthy your eating habits may be, you still need to be rigorous in your dental hygiene or you may damage your teeth and gums. It can never be repeated enough – brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are the two main pillars of good dental health. Regular checkups at the dentist will also keep you healthy because they provide an opportunity for early detection of any anomalies. Early detection of disease promotes better healing, and results in fewer consequences. On that topic, did you know that neglecting your dental health may also affect your overall health?

In recent years, a number of research studies have shown that several health concerns can be caused by poor dental hygiene. Caries and gum diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) may contribute to the appearance of serious illnesses such as cardiovascular or respiratory diseases and Type 2 diabetes. Many studies also reveal that pregnant women with poor dental health run a greater risk of giving birth to premature or low‑weight babies, predisposing them to various subsequent health problems.

If you would like to know more about the benefits of prevention, please don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Bélanger at your next appointment. He will be happy to answer all your question!