Hello, I am Dr. Lisa Marie Samaha of Port Warwick Dental Arts in Newport News. Today’s blog topic is ‘How Your Diet Affects Your Smile.’
I’m sure you brush and floss regularly and hopefully visit your Newport News cosmetic dentistry practice for cleanings, but did you know that making small changes to your diet can improve your oral health?
Most Newport News residents are aware that sugar found in candy, cookies, and sodas can harm your teeth, but some people don’t realize that all carbohydrates can cause cavities. A handful of pretzels or a piece of pumpernickel bread can have the same effect on your teeth as a fudge brownie.
All carbohydrates break down into simple sugars, which are converted into plaque, which can then cause cavities and gum disease. Carbs are naturally sticky and adhere to your teeth. Eating carbs with meals is healthier than eating them as snacks because more saliva is generated at mealtime. Saliva helps prevent food particles from sticking to teeth.
At Port Warwick Dental Arts, I continue to see tooth damage caused by sodas and sports drinks. If you choose to drink them, sip them through a straw. By limiting the contact of these drinks on your teeth, you will help preserve your enamel.
Another way Newport News folks can improve their oral health is to get 800mg of calcium a day for men and 1,000mg for women under 50. Calcium helps strengthen your jaw and secure your teeth firmly in the jaw bone.
Diet alone will not prevent cavities and gum disease for Newport News folks, however, a few changes in eating habits can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
My staff and I at Port Warwick Dental Arts are accepting new general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry patients in the 23606 zip code area. I encourage you to call 757-223-9270 today to schedule an exam and cleaning.
Port Warwick Dental Arts offers a full menu of general and specialty dental services including cosmetic dentistry and porcelain veneers. For more information, call today to schedule an appointment or visit https://pwdentalarts.com/.
Dr. Lisa Marie Samaha
Port Warwick Dental Arts
251 Nat Turner Blvd S
Newport News, VA 23606
757-223-9270
https://pwdentalarts.com/