Taking care of your teeth is important. Brushing and flossing are great ways to keep your mouth healthy, but did you know that what you eat can also make a big difference? Here are some of the best oral health foods that can help you have a sparkling smile and strong teeth.
1. Apples
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” You’ve probably heard this saying before, but apples can also keep the dentist away! Eating apples can help clean your teeth. Their crunchiness helps scrub away plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plus, apples make you chew a lot, which increases saliva production. Saliva helps rinse away food particles and bacteria.
2. Carrots
Carrots are another crunchy food that’s good for your teeth. Eating raw carrots increases saliva, just like apples. They’re packed with vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy gums. Snacking on carrots is a delicious way to keep your teeth clean and strong.
3. Cheese
Say cheese! Cheese is great for your teeth because it has calcium, which is essential for strong teeth and bones. It also contains a protein called casein, which helps to strengthen the surface of your teeth. Cheese can also balance the pH level in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
4. Yogurt
Yogurt is another dairy product that’s the best food for oral health. It’s full of calcium and protein, which are great for the strength and health of your teeth. Yogurt also has probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria. These probiotics can help fight the bad bacteria that cause cavities.
5. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are super healthy for your body and your teeth. They are high in calcium, which strengthens your teeth. They also contain folic acid, a type of B vitamin that is good for your gums. Adding leafy greens to your meals can help keep your mouth healthy.
6. Nuts
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are great for your teeth. They are full of important nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which help strengthen teeth. Chewing nuts also stimulates saliva production, which helps to wash away bacteria and food particles.
7. Celery
Celery might seem boring, but it’s a powerful food for your teeth. It’s very crunchy and acts like a natural toothbrush, helping to scrape away food particles and bacteria. Celery is also high in water, which is good for producing saliva. Plus, it has vitamins A and C, which are important for healthy gums.
8. Strawberries
Strawberries are not only tasty but also good for your teeth. They contain malic acid, which can help whiten your teeth. Strawberries are also high in vitamin C, which helps keep your gums healthy and strong. Enjoying strawberries as a snack can help brighten your smile.
9. Water
Water is the best drink for your overall health, including your oral health. Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. It also keeps your mouth hydrated, which is important for saliva production. Fluoridated water, which has added fluoride, can help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities.
10. Oranges
Oranges and other citrus fruits, like lemons and limes, are high in vitamin C. This vitamin helps keep your gums healthy by strengthening the blood vessels and connective tissues in your mouth. Just remember to rinse your mouth with water after eating citrus fruits because their acid can weaken tooth enamel if left on your teeth for too long.
Tips for a Healthy Mouth
Eating these foods can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, but here are a few more tips to remember:
- Brush twice a day: Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth in the morning and before bed.
- Floss daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit the dentist regularly: Regular check-ups and cleanings by a dentist near you are important for keeping your mouth healthy.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Too much sugar can cause cavities. If you do have sugary treats, brush your teeth afterward or rinse your mouth with water.
Regency Square Dental Can Suggest The Best Foods For Your Oral Health
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be hard. By eating the right foods and following these simple tips, you can keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy. So, the next time you reach for a snack, choose something that will make your teeth happy.
If you have multiple health conditions and can’t choose foods by yourself, you should seek a professional’s opinion. Our dentist in Davie at Regency Square Dental has the expert knowledge to assess and assist you in finding the best foods for your oral health that sync with your other health conditions and medications.