Good oral health isn’t all about flossing and brushing. What you eat also has a great deal to do with keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Some foods make enamel stronger, battle bacteria, and promote oral health in general. If you are interested in natural ways to improve oral health, adding the correct foods to your diet can work wonders.
Here are eight of the best foods that are good for your teeth and gums:
1. Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt)
Dairy foods are the preferred diet for healthy teeth and bones. They contain phosphates and calcium, which remineralize the teeth and form a healthy layer of enamel. Cheese also initiates saliva flow that kills harmful bacteria in the mouth and has the ability to neutralize acid. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which have been shown to keep gums healthy by minimizing the harmful bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.
2. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Apples, carrots, and celery function as natural toothbrushes when they scrub off plaque from your teeth as you chew. They are also rich in fiber and water that can stimulate saliva flow. Saliva is responsible for the protection of teeth by flushing away food particles and neutralizing acids. The vitamins and antioxidants present in these vegetables and fruits also fight inflammation and infections within the gums.
3. Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and folic acid, which contribute to healthy gums and teeth. These vegetables also have antibacterial properties that reduce inflammation and protect against gum disease. The high fiber content helps clean the teeth naturally, while the nutrients promote stronger enamel and healthier gums.
4. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are great sources of calcium, phosphorus, and healthy fats, all of which help strengthen tooth enamel. Chewing nuts also promote saliva production, reducing the risk of cavities. Additionally, nuts contain arginine, an amino acid that helps prevent plaque formation and reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease.
5. Fatty Fish
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines contain vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which help the body absorb calcium more efficiently. This makes fatty fish an excellent food for strong teeth and bones. Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties that support gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease. These fish also contain phosphorus, which is vital for maintaining tooth structure and preventing decay.
6. Green and Black Tea
Tea is rich in polyphenols, which are used to combat nasty bacteria within the mouth. Green tea specifically is great at curbing inflammation and combating oral infections. Sipping on tea without sugar can be a simple and pleasant method of enhancing your oral health naturally. Tea also prevents bad breath by decreasing bacterial growth and decreasing levels of acidity in the mouth.
7. Water
Water is vital to overall health, including dental health. It washes away food and bacteria, preventing cavities and gum disease. Fluoridated water, especially, builds enamel strength and guards against decay. Proper hydration also maintains healthy saliva production, which is important in neutralizing acids and avoiding dry mouth, a condition that puts people at higher risk for cavities.
8. Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugarless gum also helps stimulate saliva, which is beneficial in flushing bacteria and food particles away. For gum that is sweetened naturally with xylitol, a natural sweetener that was demonstrated to reduce cavity-forming bacteria. Xylitol is also good in keeping the pH of the mouth balanced to stop acid formation from causing erosions in enamel.
Maintain a Healthy Smile with the Right Diet
Healthy gums and teeth begin with a well-balanced diet consisting of these tooth-friendly foods. Adding them to your meals can naturally protect your teeth and promote your oral health.
Come Visit Us At Lakeside Family Dental
If you’re in search of customized dental care, come see a dentist in Burlington. Lakeside Family Dental provides superior dental care to maintain your healthy smile. Get in touch with us today and book your appointment to move towards a healthier mouth!
