Your overall health is linked to your dental health in a number of ways. Your diet is one of these ways, as it can have an impact on your dental health and overall health.

When you consume large amounts of sugary foods and drinks it can result in the increased chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease, along with weakening your bone structure, can cause systemic inflammatory responses. When this occurs your risk of heart disease and other inflammatory conditions increases.

Candies, flavored waters, sodas, and sports and energy drinks are loaded with high fructose corn syrup which is not only bad for your body but also harms the health of your teeth.

You should also be cautious if you are purchasing “diet” drinks. Diet sodas still contain high levels of acidity that contribute to the breakdown of tooth enamel.

By limiting the amount of these types of foods and drinks, you are not only helping your overall health, you are also decreasing the risk of serious dental health issues.

For more tips on proper dental hygiene and how to keep a healthy mouth, be sure to view the American Dental Association’s (ADA) website.

If you are experiencing any pain, sensitivity or discomfort, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Levine. The earlier a dental health issue is caught, the more treatable it is.