Diet, Oral Health and Wellness
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Transcript of Diet, Oral Health and Wellness
Diet, Oral Health and Wellness
What’s the connection?
Diet and oral health are closely related– A healthy dentition is needed to chew
fresh, whole foods and……
– The foods we choose to eat can directly impact the health of teeth and gums
– The goal is healthy mouths and healthy bodies
To develop a cavity you need…
A susceptible tooth
Decay-causing bacteria (dental plaque)
Carbohydrate (carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen = CHO)
Sugar (CHO) + Bacteria = Acid Production
How do you strengthen the teeth to reduce decay?
How do you reduce bacterial plaque?
Should you eliminate carbohydrates from your diet?
Carbohydrates Fuel Us
Simple CHO-table sugar, honey, fructose
Complex CHO-found in vegetables, whole fruits and whole grains, fiber
The frequency eaten (how often) and the texture (how sticky) of the CHO are important factors to consider when changing the diet to decrease dental decay
All CHO’s can demineralize tooth enamel
Simple Sugar-Sticky Texture
Eat Less Simple Carbohydrates
Eat More Complex Carbohydrates
Developing bones/teeth need calcium rich foods/dairy products
Benefits of Drinking Water
Frequently drinking soda pop and fruit juices can increase the risk for tooth decay
When you are thirsty, reach for water, it is calorie free and may contain fluoride
Water is an essential nutrient needed for total health
Most bottled water does not contain fluoride
Bottled water
Children Need Two Types of Fluoride
Topical (you may need two or more)toothpaste, gels, rinses
(topical sources are not swallowed)
Systemic (you only need one)community water fluoridation or prescription fluoride supplements
(systemic sources are swallowed)
Saliva’s a Good Thing….
Saliva offers natural protection against decay – it neutralizes the acid in the mouth
Individuals with less saliva and “dry” mouths are at more risk for tooth decay
Chewing sugarless gum after a meal or snack does promote saliva production which can help protect teeth
Impact of Eating Disorders
Bulimia Nervosa – frequent vomiting causes enamel erosion due to the acid content, which can lead to tooth decay
Anorexia Nervosa – starvation diets rob teeth and bodies of essential nutrients
A balanced diet and regular exercise is the best combination to maintain a healthy weight
Dental Erosion
To Reduce Dental Decay You Can…
Strengthen the tooth enamel with appropriate fluorides
Protect the chewing surfaces of teeth with dental sealants
Brush & floss daily to remove bacteria
Limit servings of sticky CHO foods and sweet beverages / increase complex CHO
Dental Sealant
Molar on right has no sealant. Dark spot may be start of decay Molar on left has sealant
Make the Connection
A healthy mouth means a healthy body
Eating a balanced diet with a variety of foods will improve oral health and general health
Reducing the frequency of sugary foods and beverages will reduce tooth decay and help maintain a healthy weight