Hello, I am Dr. Marcos Ortega, DDS, in San Diego. Today’s blog topic is, ‘How Your Diet Affects Your Smile.’
I’m sure you brush and floss regularly and hopefully visit your San Diego cosmetic dental practice for cleanings, but did you know that making small changes to your diet can improve your oral health?
Most San Diego residents are aware that sugar found in candy, cookies, and sodas can harm your teeth, but some San Diego 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 Marcos Ortega, DDS, 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 San Diego folks can improve their oral health is to get 800 mg of calcium a day for men and 1,000 mg 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 San Diego folks; however, a few changes in eating habits can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
My staff and I at Marcos Ortega, DDS, are accepting new San Diego general and cosmetic dental patients in the San Diego area. I encourage you to call 619-295-4545 today to schedule an exam and cleaning.
Marcos Ortega, DDS, 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://www.mysandiegosmiles.com/about/.
Dr. Ortega
Marcos Ortega DDS
306 Walnut Ave, Ste 25
San Diego, California 92103
619-295-4545
https://www.mysandiegosmiles.com/about/