Surprising Tips for Optimal Oral Health

To keep your teeth and gums healthy, most people know the basics. Brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, and see your dentist for checkups. Not only does your dental health impact your beautiful smile, but it also affects your total body wellness. Research has found a link between gum disease and conditions like heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes complications.

The following tips might surprise you, but they can help keep your mouth in tip-top shape:

  • Add salmon to the menu.

If you don’t love the idea of fish, try peanut butter or nuts. The important part is to eat foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). New information shows that people who eat diets filled with PUFAs, especially DHA and EPA, have a 20 percent less risk of developing gum disease.

  • Go green (tea).

Rich in benefits, green tea helps protect against cancer, enhances weight loss, and lowers cholesterol. Recently, the Journal of Periodontology published a study showing that participants who drank green tea had fewer indicators for periodontal disease.

  • Try sugar-free gum.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing sugarless gum approximately 20 minutes after a meal helps cut down on cavities because chewing the gum increases salvia production. Salvia naturally rinses away the acids produced in your mouth after you eat.

  • Avoid late night snacks.

The midnight munchies can increase your waistline, but they can also negatively impact your mouth. Eating late at night can contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss, so stay out of the frig.

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