Eating Habits Affect Oral Health

Dietary Habits Affect Oral Health Dr. Eda Özdere, Prosthodontist at Acıbadem Ankara Hospital, shared important information on oral health and emphasized the importance of nutrition in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Eda Özdere highlighted the importance of brushing twice daily and using dental floss for a healthy smile, while also drawing attention to the role of dietary habits. Acıbadem Ankara Hospital Prosthodontist Dr. Eda Özdere stated: "There is a two-way relationship between oral health and nutrition. Proper nutrition positively affects the health of tissues in the mouth, while healthy teeth help food to be chewed and ground more effectively."

Dr. Eda Özdere Explained the Effects of Dietary Habits on Oral Health

Acıbadem Ankara Hospital Prosthodontist Dr. Eda Özdere addressed the effects of dietary habits on gum and tooth health. Özdere stated: "It would be incorrect to say that poor dietary habits directly cause gum disease, but improper nutrition can increase the rate of spread of gum disease. Sugar consumption and failure to brush teeth afterward have been associated with increased risk of tooth decay. Foods with high nutritional value support the health of teeth and gums. A balanced diet plan containing fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, grains and dairy products provides the necessary support for optimum oral health as well as overall health."

Foods Rich in Calcium, Phosphorus and Vitamin C Should Be Consumed

Dr. Eda Özdere shared information on what should be done for tooth health and foods important for dental health. Dr. Özdere stated: "Foods rich in calcium such as milk, yogurt and cheese help develop teeth and bones. Other sources of calcium include salmon, almonds and some dark leafy vegetables." The statement also emphasized the importance of phosphorus for tooth health and recommended consuming eggs, fish, lean meat, dairy products, hazelnuts and beans which are rich in phosphorus. The importance of vitamin C for gum health was also stressed, similar to phosphorus, and consumption of foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers was recommended for oral health.

Attention Should Be Paid to Snacking Between Meals

Dr. Eda Özdere's statement noted that snacking habits also affect tooth health. It was noted that eating frequently between meals can cause tooth decay and that if snacking occurs between meals, healthier snack options can be preferred. Dr. Özdere also noted that food choices play an important role in the development of tooth decay and stated that having dietary habits that properly provide all necessary food groups plays an important role in tooth health.

Eating Habits in Children and Adolescents Determine the Rate of Tooth Decay

Dr. Eda Özdere, who also drew attention to oral health in infants and children, noted that nutrition plays an important role in oral health for babies as well; "It is not recommended for your baby or young child to fall asleep with a bottle. Food placed in a bottle overnight remains in the mouth and if not cleaned can cause decay. Sugar consumption and sweetened beverages in children should be limited. Eating habits in children and adolescents are among the most important factors determining the rate of tooth decay."