Yes, Oral pH Matters
March is National Nutrition Month! The food and beverages you consume play a huge role in your health. Of course, a nutritious diet is beneficial for your overall health, but it also plays a crucial role in your oral health. Your teeth and gums need nutrients in order for them to develop properly and stay strong throughout your lifetime. Let’s look at some foods that aren’t good for your teeth and some that are! HOW FOOD CAN AFFECT YOUR TEETH MARCH IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH!
RUNNING LOW ON FUEL? HOW TO ENTERTAIN KIDS DESPITE FATIGUE
After working all day, it can be tough to keep up with your kids. Sometimes, it can even feel like working a second job. While you still need to be physically
and emotionally present, there are ways to exert less energy and still play with kids of all different ages. If your baby is under 1 year old, they are too young to play by themselves, but you can still play while not physically overdoing it. Resting on the floor with your baby and showing them some sensory toys or reading
FOODS THAT ARE BAD FOR YOUR TEETH •
Sugar: Candy, chewing gum,* soda, gummies, fruit juices, and energy drinks contain lots of sugar. These sugary substances can stick to your teeth and cause tooth decay. *Not all chewing gum is bad! Look for sugar-free gum that includes xylitol. Chewing it after meals can actually increase saliva production and neutralize the pH balance in your mouth to help stave off bacteria.
to them is both entertaining and educational. Another great option for your infant is to blow bubbles for them — they will love watching the bubbles float and dance through the air. If your toddler is on the go and walking, they may require a little more to stay adequately entertained. Try sitting on the floor and singing nursery rhymes. You can also let your child explore objects in the room while you build upon their language by explaining what different items are. Since you’re sleepy, why not pretend your toddler’s stuffed animal is sleepy too? Have your child “put teddy to bed.” If you’re lucky, you may be able to get in a few moments of shut-eye too! If your child is 2–4 years old, they might love using their imagination! Try having a picnic with them in the living room (you can even invite their stuffed animals to join!). Playing doctor is also a fun option and opportunity to be lazy and sleepy if you get to play the part of the sickly patient. You may also get out the building blocks and create with them — this requires little physical exertion and is a great developmentally appropriate activity. If your child is 4 years or older, they are likely very active. What about hosting an indoor obstacle course where you get to be the timer? All you have to do is gather a few items from around the house and use furniture and pillows to build a course. Think of incorporating activities such as having them crawl under the dining room table, walk across a blanket bridge, or hop over the pillow rocks. If you’re feeling artsy and would prefer to make something with your child, you can even just sit down at the table and break out some homemade play dough. The most important thing is to get creative and never feel guilty for needing to scale back a bit after having a long day. With these interactive ideas and tips, you will make it through the tough days and still feel like the super-parent you are!
• Starch: Bread, pasta, potatoes, and rice are some examples of foods that contain a lot of starch. These foods tend to get stuck between your teeth and can cause cavities between the teeth. This is why you should floss each night to loosen any pieces of food in your mouth.
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Acidic Food: Some fruits and juices such as lemons, grapes, and blueberries contain acids that can break down the enamel in your teeth. Pickles can also break down the enamel because they are soaked in vinegar, which can weaken the strength of your teeth.
FOODS THAT ARE GOOD FOR YOUR TEETH •
Calcium: Cheese, yogurt, and greens are good sources of calcium and can help protect and build enamel.
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Protein: Like the muscles in your body, any type of meat provides your body with minerals used to maintain and develop strong bones (and teeth).
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Fruits and Vegetables: These foods protect your teeth from decay and neutralize the acids in some food. Water: This is always the best choice. Not only is it good for your body, but it can also wash away some of the food particles and acid that remain in your mouth after eating.
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You don’t have to stay away from food and drinks that are bad for your teeth altogether. Eat a variety of foods in moderation, wait at least 30 minutes to brush after eating or drinking acidic foods, floss daily and brush twice daily, and come see us for your regular cleanings! Together, we can look at what you consume each day and see if any modifications to your oral health routine are needed. If you have questions about specific foods or drinks, don’t hesitate to ask us!
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