Good teeth lead to a healthy body. Many studies have found a link between a person’s oral health and their overall health. Our teeth play a crucial role in our life, and taking care of them is essential because they are one of our most valuable assets. A healthy lifestyle includes not only eating the appropriate foods and exercising, but also taking care of our mouth and teeth, which will assist our bodies to fight bacteria and infection.
Here’s an interview with Dr. Ibrahim Sameer Al Najjar, a General Dentist from Saudi Arabia, who will tell us how to keep our teeth healthy.
Q.) How food and drinks affect the teeth?
Dr. Ibrahim: One of the key factors contributing to tooth decay is sugary meals and beverages. When bacteria in your mouth break down the sugar, acid is created.
The initial stage of tooth decay occurs when the acid dissolves the tooth’s surface. Acid, sugar, and carbonation in soft drinks erode tooth enamel and promote the development of germs that cause dental decay.
The ideal time to clean your teeth after eating is at least one hour later. It’s extremely crucial to brush your teeth before bed.
Q.) Which foods promote dental health?
Dr. Ibrahim: Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. Foods with fiber help keep your teeth and gums clean, says the American Dental Association (ADA).
– Cheese, milk, plain yogurt, and other dairy products. Cheese is another saliva maker.
– Green and black tea.
– Sugarless chewing gum.
– Foods with fluoride.
– Meat, eggs, tofu, beans, nuts and green leafy vegetables are all good sources of protein.
Q.) Which foods and beverages should be avoided to maintain healthy teeth?
Dr. Ibrahim: Sour candies, Soft drinks, Bread, Alcohol, Carbonated drinks, Ice, Citrus, Potato chips, Dried fruits, Cakes and biscuits, Sweets and chocolate,
Flavoured milks and yoghurts, Sugary breakfast cereals and cereal bars, Jams,
Fruit canned in syrup, Sauces and syrups such as some pasta sauces / marinades / ketchup.
Q.) How does nutritious meals result in strong teeth?
Dr. Ibrahim: In order to prevent dental decay and gingival disease, it’s vital to pay attention to your food choices and eating behaviours. By preserving and regenerating tooth enamel, minerals like calcium and phosphorus benefit dental health.
Yogurt, milk, cheese, kale, broccoli, wild salmon, herring, and eggs (with the yolk) will ensure that you receive the right amount of calcium and vitamin D for maintaining the strength of your bones and teeth.
Q.) How should everyday dental care be conducted at home?
Dr. Ibrahim: Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
– Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
– Floss once daily.
– Brush your tongue.
– Use an antibacterial mouthwash every day.
– Visit your dentist regularly.
– Avoid smoking and other tobacco products.
Q.) Which foods prevent tooth decay?
Dr. Ibrahim: Food which prevent tooth decay are:
– Eat licorice root.
– Sugar-free gum.
– Eggshell.
– Leafy Greens.
– Apples.
– Carrots.
– Celery.
– Almonds.
Q.) Which foods harm dental enamel?
Dr. Ibrahim: In addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing, and scheduling regular dental checkups, attempt to minimise or avoid the items listed below.
Candies: It’s usually not surprising that candy is unhealthy for your mouth, Bread, Alcohol, Potato chips, Dried fruits, Other Sugary Food Items. If you have a sweet tooth, you need to be aware that candy, cookies, pies and other delicious treats can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, Soft Drinks, Coffee and Tea, Wine, Sports Drinks, Citrus Fruits and Juices, Crackers, Pasta Sauce.
Q.) How to maintain & strengthen teeth with food?
Dr. Ibrahim: Teeth require a range of nutrients and minerals to remain strong, including calcium, vitamins A, C, and D, protein, and phosphorus. Eggs, lean meat, nuts, beans, green leafy vegetables, and fish are good sources of these nutrients.
Q.) How often should we visit the dentist?
Dr. Ibrahim: It’s widely assumed that you should see a dentist twice a year. This is an excellent rule of thumb to remember when in doubt. However, if you want to be certain about how frequently you should get a dental checkup, you should evaluate your unique mouth, hygiene, habits, and overall well-being.
Q.) Would you like to give our readers any dental health advice?
Dr. Ibrahim: Practise proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss between your teeth once a day to remove dental plaque. Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have dentures or no natural teeth.
– Do not use any tobacco products.
– Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth.
– Brush properly.
– Don’t neglect your tongue.
– Use a fluoride toothpaste.
– Treat flossing as important as brushing.
– Don’t let flossing difficulties stop you.
– Consider mouthwash.
– Drink more water.
By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author)
Instagram A/c: aviationauthor.ridakhan
