Dental health is an integral part of your overall health and well-being. Did you know that your diet can play a significant role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums? From calcium-rich dairy products to fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, tempting candy to drinks at the bar, the foods you consume can either strengthen or harm your dental health. If you want your teeth to stay healthy, here is your guide to the best food for healthy teeth and that one needs to avoid for optimal oral health.
It is hardly surprising that some of the best foods for teeth are also good for your overall health. Let us look at what you can incorporate into your diet to keep your teeth strong from the inside out.
Calcium - Calcium-rich dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are some of the most tooth-healthy foods for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Besides, milk and plain yogurt make for great low-sugar snacking, promoting oral health. Milk also helps neutralize bacteria-causing acids produced in the mouth, making it one of the best foods for teeth.
Vitamin D - Vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, eggs, and mushrooms help the body absorb calcium. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and herring are rich sources of vitamin D and comprise foods that are good for your teeth. Vitamin D, and vitamins K2 and A, help strengthen teeth enamel by delivering calcium to them.
Omega 3 fatty acid - Fatty fish are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids that promote healthy gums, which are essential for supporting healthy teeth. Gum bleeding while brushing or flossing is a condition that affects a majority of the adult population in the United States. Known as periodontitis, one of the ways of preventing gum bleeding is by having enough omega-3 fatty acids. To include foods good for teeth in your diet, consider supplementing your daily protein with fish like salmon, tuna, or mackerel.
Vitamin C – Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables like oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, and broccoli aid in producing collagen, which is essential for having healthy gums. While acidic foods may not be the best for dental health, citrus fruits are an exception when eaten in moderation. Oranges and grapefruit are rich in vitamin C, which helps build strong gums and prevent gum diseases. They also help reduce gum bleeding and are considered the best food for healthy teeth.
Antioxidants - Foods high in antioxidants, like green tea and berries, are also considered food good for teeth as they protect against gum diseases and tooth decay.
Crunchy food - When planning your diet based on what foods are good for teeth, include crunchy fruits like apples. Apples have high water content and are extremely rich in fiber, allowing them to keep your teeth clean. Crunchy food weeds out the harmful bacteria that stick to your teeth, resulting in plaque and tartar that are very harmful to your teeth and the entire mouth.
While some foods, like the ones listed above, can promote dental health, some can cause dental decay and gum diseases. It is essential to avoid such foods and drinks for optimal oral health:
Sugary and acidic foods and drinks – Acidic and sugary foods and drinks like candy and soda can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Sodas also contain many acids which may cause tooth decay, gum inflammation, and general degradation of oral health. You must always brush your teeth soon afterward if you consume sugary or acidic foods. Try avoiding these foods in your diet for healthier teeth and gums.
Starch - Starchy foods like white bread and potatoes are not considered the best foods for dental health as they can stick to your teeth and promote the growth of harmful bacteria.
Alcohol - Alcohol can dry out the mouth, increasing bacteria growth and risk of gum disease. Therefore, you should keep alcohol consumption to a minimum if you want strong and healthy teeth.
Now that you are aware of what types of foods are beneficial for the health of your teeth, there’s no time like the present to focus on your dental health and nourish that beautiful smile of yours!
Visit Smile Arizona Dentistry to learn more about dental health or if you are looking for experienced dentists. Smile Arizona Dentistry is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain excellent oral health. Contact Smile Arizona Dentistry or call us at (480) 994-5225 today to schedule an appointment to treat all your dental concerns.
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