Soddy Daisy Smiles shares positive dental diets, tips

The things we eat directly impact our bodies and oral health, though few people consider how the latest diet trend that promises weight loss and better living effects one's dental health. Drs. Robert and Mandy Shearer at Soddy Daisy Smiles are working to educate the public on positive diets and eating habits that will help ensure good dental health as well as fulfilling nutritional needs.

Drs. Robert & Mandy Shearer

"Teeth have a natural way of staying healthy and strong," Dr. Mandy Shearer said. "Remineralization is a natural mechanism in the body to rebuild the enamel during early stages of decay. However, if you constantly expose your teeth -- more specifically the bacteria in your mouth -- to sugars and starches, this natural process cannot combat the attacks quickly enough."

Food now is softer, starchier and sweeter than it has ever been in the past. With that in mind, keep these vitamins and minerals in what you take in:

Necessary vitamins and minerals for healthy teeth:

1. Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and fluoride for strong enamel and dentin

2. Vitamin D to aid in the absorption of calcium as well as other minerals

3. Vitamin A or beta-Carotene for healthy mucous membranes and salivary flow

4. Vitamin B for healthy soft and connective tissues in the mouth, including gums, lips and tongue

5. Vitamin C for a healthy immune system and good periodontal (gum) health

6. Vitamin K2 works as an activator for other necessary vitamins like D and A

High calcium diets

One of the most important contributors to the development of healthy teeth is calcium, according to Dr. Robert Shearer.

"There are always small bits of calcium circulating and regulated through the bloodstream, so it is important you get enough calcium in your diet; otherwise, it will start to leech from your bones and damage teeth," he explained.

Dairy foods are especially important, but not the sole source of calcium. Other calcium-rich foods are salmon, tuna, sardines, dried figs, soybeans, bok choy, broccoli, collard greens, kale, almonds and okra. Some diets that include many calcium sources are pescetarianism and high-fiber diets.

Low-carb, high-protein diets

These diets are designed mainly for bodybuilders and athletes looking to burn fat and build muscle. They are not about counting calories, but rather making them count, because when protein supplies the majority of a diet it is not only filling, but takes time for the body to digest.

"The truth is most high-protein foods also contain vital nutrients for healthy teeth," Dr. Mandy Shearer explained. "Foods like poultry, fish, eggs and milk are excellent sources of phosphorous and magnesium."

High-fat diets

Good dietary fat can actually help prevent dental decay. Diets low in fat are also low in fat-soluble vitamins vital to oral health. Vitamins A, D, E and K, which work in tandem with the minerals in the body, aid in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth.

"This does not mean you should switch to an all-meat diet," Dr. Robert Shearer said. "We suggest you choose plant foods high in fat like avocados, sprouted nuts and seeds, olives and coconut in addition to animal fats."

High-fiber diets

Also called high-residue, these diets often include highly fibrous foods to promote healthy digestion and bowels. The specific focus is foods with fiber such as broccoli and kale, which are also high in vitamin C and help boost the immune system.

Well-balanced diets

Most dentists and hygienists, though they can see the benefits of these other diets, will insist a well-balanced diet is by far the best route to take when it comes to dental and overall health.

"The teeth require vitamins and minerals from a variety of sources," Dr. Mandy Shearer noted. "When it comes to teeth all you need to worry about is the frequent and regular consumption of the sugars and starches bacteria feed on and acidic foods."

Talk with your health care providers first before picking a certain diet or eating trend. Both dentists and physicians can offer nutritional counseling and guide patients to the best dietary choices for overall health and well-being.