Dentist named products dangerous for teeth

Poor nutrition without vitamins and minerals can lead to tooth decay or inflammation of the oral cavity. Antioxidants are needed to keep the mouth clean and fight bacteria, and vitamin D is important for enamel. On April 6, Sabit Aliyev, a dental surgeon and chief physician of the Russian Dental Implantation Center network of dental clinics, told Izvestia.

He explained that for oral health it is necessary to eat foods rich in phosphorus and calcium, and in order for the gums to remain healthy and not bleed, vitamin C is important, because its deficiency increases the risk of periodontitis.

"Vitamin C affects the production of collagen, the main structural protein of the gums and ligaments that hold teeth together. It is found in oranges, kiwis, bell peppers, broccoli, and parsley. Vitamin D is also extremely important for the enamel — it helps to absorb calcium and reduces the risk of diseases," said the dentist.

According to the doctor, phosphorus, calcium and vitamin D are found in fish, seafood, nuts, eggs and greens. He added that the absence of these substances in the diet will lead to the destruction of tooth enamel, periodontitis and even tooth loss.

In addition, frequent consumption of liquid foods such as mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soft curds can lead to tooth loss. Aliev clarified: This is due to the fact that without physical exertion, the chewing muscles become flabby.

"Teeth must constantly work, just like our body, they require constant mechanical stress. I recommend crunching apples, carrots, cabbage and celery more often. Replace soft bread with crackers or loaves," the doctor recommended.

He also advised replacing black tea with green tea — it contains polyphenols that destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. But the constant consumption of coffee and wine, according to the dentist, on the contrary, can spoil the beauty of teeth.

However, Aliev warned that freshly squeezed juices are not always useful. With frequent use, their acidity can exceed even regular soda. It is best to drink such drinks through a straw — then the acid will come into less contact with the teeth.

Chocolate, muffins, and cookies are also harmful. The specialist drew attention to the fact that they can cause carious spots, yellowness on the teeth and painful inflammation of the gums. In addition, he advised against sodas, toffee and sticky dried fruits.

"These products stay on the teeth for a long time, provoking the growth of bacteria. Also, any acidic, spicy foods lead to tooth decay — they soften the enamel. After taking sour fruits, juices, and sodas, rinse your mouth with water," the expert suggested.

However, if it is difficult to give up sweets, then harmful sugar can be replaced with bitter chocolate. According to the dentist, it can prevent the growth of bacteria due to the high content of cocoa butter.

Earlier, on February 26, dental therapist, periodontist at the SM-Dentistry clinic, Candidate of Medical Sciences Elena Martynova told Izvestia how caries affects the health of the heart and blood vessels. The specialist noted that chronic foci of infection caused by untreated caries weaken the local immunity of the oral cavity, facilitating the penetration of viruses and bacteria into the body.

According to her, advanced caries is a direct path to tooth loss, and this negatively affects the process of chewing food, which, in turn, can lead to stomach and liver diseases.