Children are taught that brushing thoroughly and flossing are the keys to good dental health, but this is only a small part of what it means to practice good oral hygiene. Here in our Knoxville dentist office we strive to educate our clients on the importance of dental care, from the way the teeth are cared for externally, to the way what one eats effects them internally. Everyone knows that sugary snacks are bad for the teeth, but do you know why? Brushing and flossing alone are not the answer to keeping teeth safe from sugar and other dietary faux pas.

Yes, diet. Diet plays a huge role in dental health and here at Knoxville dentist we want you to understand how that works. What you put into your body determines the ultimate health of your teeth. Brushing and flossing serve to remove food particles from the teeth, thus preventing the build-up of bacteria, tartar and plaque that could eventually lead to tooth and gum decay, resulting in the need for future, expensive dental work. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and x-rays will facilitate this process, but are not the answer to excellent oral hygiene.

What you eat plays a huge role in how healthy your teeth are. In our urbanized, fast-food culture many people now subsist on a diet of the very foods that lead to rapid tooth decay, eschewing fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains in favor of chicken nuggets and french fries with a milkshake. Soft, moist, sugary and acidic foods stick to the teeth and work very quickly to erode enamel and compromise gum health. Small caries, or areas of decay, in the teeth enlarge more quickly when these foods are consumed on a regular basis. A breakfast purchased through the drive-through will sit on the teeth until lunch, to be followed by donuts from the office break-room and pizza ordered in for the group.

Instead, a balanced diet consisting mainly of fresh vegetables and whole grains with a minimum of processed foods should be followed. Not only will your body be taking in nutrient rich foods, but the chewing process of these firmer, less-soft foods will give your teeth and gums the exercise they need to stay healthy and strong. This will not only aid in good oral health, but in over-all body health. A comfortable weight will be maintained, blood sugar levels will remain steady, ensuring a high level of energy throughout the day and your smile will gleam! It’s a simple answer to a variety of bodily ills.

Here at Knoxville dentist we want our clients to be able to minimize their visits to the dentist – ideally we will only see you for your twice-yearly cleanings. Call us today to make an appointment to evaluate your overall dental health. We’re here to serve you!