A Lagos-based Dentist, Dr Niyi Adekeye, on Thursday advised Nigerians to take food rich in vitamins D, C and calcium to maintain and sustain strong and healthy teeth always.
Adekeye told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that, these nutrients helped in building the enamel, adding that consumption of nutritious foods was critical to keeping strong and healthy teeth.
He listed foods rich in calcium to include yogurt, cheese, seafood, milk, tofu and almonds, among others.
“ To maintain healthy teeth, we must look at what we eat and ensure we take food loaded with vitamins D, C, calcium and phosphorous.
“Vitamin C strengthens blood vessels and reduces inflammation which helps the gums stay healthier. It is also required for the production of collagen that helps fight periodontal diseases,“he said.
Periodontal diseases, according to experts, relate to or affect the tissues that surround the neck and root of a tooth.
“ Without Vitamin C, your gums become sensitive and more susceptible to the bacteria causing periodontal diseases.”
The dentist also stressed the need for people to imbibe the habit of good oral health.
The medical expert urged the people to least once in a year to remove residues left in the teeth after daily brushing.
He said that the consumption of chocolate and sugary foods should be minimized, adding that once an individual brushed at night, such a person should not consume anything sugary again before bedtime.
“There are some bacteria in the teeth which will not leave even with daily brushing; this can be removed by the dentist.
“ Prevent periodontal diseases by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist at least once in a year.
“ Chocolates and sugary foods cause bacteria harmful to the teeth, their consumption should be minimised to enjoy a healthy oral health.” (NAN)