As you age, your body changes. Your teeth are a part of those changes. Many seniors face issues like gum disease. Along with cavities, dry mouth, and even tooth loss. But did you know that good nutrition plays a big role in keeping your teeth strong and healthy? Eating the right foods supports your body to stay healthy. As well as protects your teeth and gums for when you get older.

Why Tooth Loss Happens in Seniors

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), severe tooth loss is noted as having eight or less teeth. This can gravely affect your ability to eat a balanced diet. One that consists of fruits, vegetables, and meats. About 26% of seniors that are 65 or older experience severe tooth loss. While more than 15% have lost all of their natural teeth.

Gum disease and cavities are the main cause of tooth loss. Both of these issues are largely preventable with good oral care. Along with healthy eating habits. 

How Nutrition Supports Oral Health

Good nutrition helps strengthen your immune system. Along with supporting gum health and keeps your teeth strong. Without the right nutrients your moth is vulnerable. To things like decay and disease. 

1. Calcium for Strong Teeth and Bones – Calcium helps keep your teeth and jawbones strong. The Oral Health Guide for Older Adults recommends calcium-rich foods. These are foods like low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese to help keep your bones and teeth healthy.
2. Phosphorus for Tooth Strength – Phosphorus helps protect your tooth enamel. This can be found in eggs, fish, lean meats, nuts, and beans.
3. Vitamin C for Healthy Gums – Vitamin C helps your gums stay healthy. This is because it can lower inflammation and support healing. You can get Vitamin C from citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens.
4. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables – The American Dental Association recommends crunchy fruits and vegetables. This is because chewing them increases saliva. This protects your teeth. 

What Happens When Seniors Can’t Eat Nutritious Foods?

Seniors with missing teeth or poorly fitted dentures may avoid health food that require chewing. Such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. The CDC notes that tooth loss directly affects the ability to eat a healthy diet. This can also increase risk for other health problems. Including dementia and heart disease. This is why it is so important to start eating healthy as soon as you can. Good nutrition supports every function of your body. Which leads to a happier, healthier, and longer life.

Visit Clinicas 

At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. we understand how strongly good nutrition and oral health work together to protect you from tooth loss. This is why our Dental Care Services line support older adults with preventative cleanings, gum care, denture assistance and education. While our Health Education Team helps patients understand how diet affects your teeth by teaching seniors about vital nutrients. Like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin C. Reach out to one of our 16 Health Centers today to support your oral health today, and all the days to come!