Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining oral and dental health. Good nutritional intake is not only essential for overall bodily health but also contributes to preserving healthy teeth. Conversely, certain types of food can negatively affect dental health.
A study conducted by FKG UGM student Harni Kartikarini , under the supervision of drg. Elastria Widita, M.Sc., Ph.D. and Prayudha Benni S, S.Kp.G., MPH. , titled “The Relationship Between Nutritional Intake and the Number of Teeth in the Elderly in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta,” revealed that poor nutritional intake can be directly linked to tooth loss in the elderly. This highlights the importance of proper nutrition in maintaining dental health, particularly among vulnerable age groups.
Foods to Avoid:
- High-Sugar Foods
- Sugar compounds can accelerate the growth of bacteria in the mouth that produce acid, damaging tooth enamel. Examples include candy, sugary drinks, and cakes.
- Acidic Foods
- Foods high in acid such as oranges, tomatoes, and soft drinks can cause enamel erosion. Eroded enamel makes teeth more prone to damage.
- Refined Carbohydrates
- Foods like white bread, chips, and pasta can leave residues on teeth and convert to sugar, which in turn leads to tooth decay.
- Sticky Foods
- Snacks like caramel or chewing gum are sticky and difficult to clean. These foods easily get trapped between teeth and can cause plaque buildup.
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Alcohol can reduce saliva production, making the mouth more vulnerable to bacteria that cause tooth decay.
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Adopting a balanced diet and avoiding foods that can damage teeth is essential. Paying attention to nutritional intake not only benefits overall body health but also positively impacts oral and dental well-being. Efforts to maintain dental health should start with healthy eating habits to ensure teeth remain strong and healthy throughout life.
References
Harni Kartikarini , drg. Elastria Widita, M.Sc., Ph.D., Prayudha Benni S, S.Kp.G., MPH., The Relationship Between Nutritional Intake and the Number of Teeth in the Elderly in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/212355
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
