A healthy, balanced diet is important to your basic nutrition and physical well-being but did you know that a healthy diet is also necessary to keep your teeth, gums and mouth clean and healthy? Well, it’s true! The food we eat can have a big impact on our teeth.
The best foods for dental health are generally the same ones recommended for our bodies, such as fruits and vegetables. The worst food and drink choices for your health and mouth that feed plaque-causing bacteria are sugary and starchy foods. These foods create an acid that cause tooth decay. Knowing what foods prevent tooth decay and gum disease and build healthier teeth and gums, will keep your mouth looking young and beautiful for years to come along with the added health benefits! See our list of the best foods or drink for your teeth.
- Water, like saliva, helps wash sugars and acid off teeth. Fluoride also plays a big role in water’s benefits. The naturally occurring mineral protects against tooth decay and in some areas of the United States water is fortified with fluoride. Drinking at least 8-10 glasses a day has significant health benefits for your body and your teeth.
- Dairy, including milk, yogurt and cheese are rich in calcium and lower acid levels in your mouth helping to prevent tooth decay. Eating hard cheeses increase saliva production which helps to wash away some of the bacteria in your mouth. Yogurt also provides beneficial probiotics for your body.
- Fruits and vegetables especially crunchy ones like apples, celery and carrots clean plaque from teeth and can even help freshen your breath. They are not only important to a balanced diet, but are important to providing antioxidant vitamins such as Vitamin C that help protect your gums and other tissue from bacterial infection and cell damage.
- Nuts are filled with calcium and phosphorus and are packed with health benefits for your teeth. Almonds, especially raw are extremely beneficial. Add Brazil nuts and cashews to your snack routine and you’ll help fight bacteria and prevent tooth decay.
- Green and black tea contain polyphenols, which disrupt and kill bacteria that causes plaque. Unsweetened tea makes a good choice during and after a meal as it suppresses the presence of acid producing bacteria. Add in cavity-fighting benefits, polyphenols are a great addition to your dental health routine.
- Lean meats, fish and eggs are great for your oral health. Packed with protein and phosphorus these foods help strengthen your teeth and protect and rebuild tooth enamel.
Eating delicious food beneficial to your dental health is important but remember what your dentist has taught you! It’s always a good idea to brush your teeth, chew gum with xylitol or at least drink some water after indulging in a meal or snack. Cleaning your teeth in some way reduces the remaining food particles, sugars and acids that will keep your smile looking great!
For more ideas on bringing healthy eating to your dental routine, schedule an appointment today. Call My Plantation Dentist at 954-584-1030.
