Did you know that good oral hygiene extends beyond your daily brushing and routine dentist appointments? What you eat can have a major impact on your teeth and gums for the better or the worse.
While much of the emphasis on food and oral health is about what to avoid (i.e. sugar, candy, and soft drinks), there are also foods that can be beneficial for your smile! Read on to learn about the best food for healthy teeth and gums so you can start incorporating more into your and your family’s meal plan.
10 of The Best Foods For Your Teeth
Remember that everyone’s oral health is different, and like with any food, these are best enjoyed in moderation.
These are a handful of the best foods for your teeth and what makes them so good for your oral health:
1. Apples
You’ve heard that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Well, it can also keep your dentist happy! Apples can help to cleanse and clean your teeth naturally because they are fibrous. Additionally, the acidity of apples can also kill off the bacteria that cause bad breath!
2. Yogurt & Cheeses
Dairy products are great at encouraging your body to produce more saliva (which is essential for protecting your teeth). Also, these products are full of calcium that can strengthen your teeth. Of course, it’s important to choose yogurts, cheeses, and milk that are unsweetened for the maximum benefit.
3. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens are chock-full of vitamins that help you produce saliva and keep your enamel healthy. Raw or plain vegetables are best, and you’ll want to avoid sugary dressings or toppings.
4. Green or Black Tea
The acidic properties of coffee can be harsh on your teeth. However, unsweetened green and black tea have been shown to have plaque-fighting ingredients.
5. Nuts
Nuts that are high in calcium and protein, like almonds, can help keep your teeth strong. They’re also low in sugar and make for a filling snack that can also help remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
6. Lean Meat
Lean red meat has many important nutrients that are vital to your overall health. Also, chewing meat produces saliva which decreases the acidity in your mouth and removes particles of food that lead to decay.
7. Crunchy Veggies (Carrots, Celery and More)
Crunchy veggies are some of the best foods for your teeth. From carrots and celery to broccoli and peppers, these fibrous snacks are great at removing plaque from your teeth and gums and are also all-around good for you!
8. Strawberries
These delicious summer berries have malic acid, which is a natural enamel whitener. However, it’s best to avoid overindulging in acidic fruits (like oranges and lemons) and sticking to these berries when it comes to your oral health.
9. Fatty Fish
Like red meat, fatty fish contain phosphorus and protein that can help keep your teeth healthy. While all fish offer nutritional value, fatty fish like salmon often have the most nutrients.
10. Water
Of course, we can’t overlook how important water is to a healthy smile. Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential for the production of saliva and preventing food and plaque build-up while you eat.
While these are some of the best foods for your teeth, remember that other habits like brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist are also important for your oral health.
Ready for your next routine dental cleaning? Contact us today at Newton Smile Centre for more information on our services or easily book your appointment with us online.