7 Foods Good for Your Teeth
It’s no secret that eating healthy and making smart food choices can help keep your body in good health, but did you know what you eat can have an effect on your teeth too? It’s true!
Good oral health starts with a good diet that’s low in sugar and starch and high in calcium and proteins to ward off tooth decay and keep teeth strong. Here are 7 foods that will keep your smile as healthy as the rest of you:
7 Good for Teeth Foods to Choose
01: Dairy Products
Milk, yogurt (unsweetened or low in sugar), and cheese are rich in calcium and protein which are key ingredients in strengthening teeth and keeping them that way. Dairy also encourages the production of saliva which helps wash away harmful bacteria, acids, and food particles hanging around in your mouth looking to cause tooth trouble.
02: Crunchy and Leafy Veggies
Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery help keep teeth and gums clean and that all-important saliva flowing. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and chard are packed with vitamins and minerals, including a high amount of calcium — one of your teeth’s best friends! Oh, and by the way: while beets may not be crunchy, they are an excellent source of cavity-fighting fluoride (another BFF of teeth!).
03: Fresh Fruit
Fruits with high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants can help neutralize the bacteria in your mouth. Apples, strawberries, cranberries, kiwis, and oranges are all good providers of these healthy teeth ingredients.
In addition, chewing firm, fibrous, and watery foods like fruits (and those veggies we mentioned) tend to pump up saliva production, and as you’ve likely figured out by now, that’s a good thing!
04: Black and Green Teas
Unsweetened black and green teas contain ingredients that fight plaque and protect enamel. Bonus: brew ‘em up with water containing fluoride and your teeth will be even happier!
05: Lean Proteins
Meat, fish, poultry,and tofu are all chock full of phosphorus and protein to keep teeth strong and healthy. Eggs and beans are also a great source for protein to power that smile of yours!
06: Seafood
Since oceans are naturally full of sodium fluoride, fish that come from the ocean — along with other types of seafood — can be a good source of fluoride, in addition to being protein providers.
07: Nuts
The next time you need a snack, skip the chips and grab a handful of nuts! Almonds are an especially great choice since they are low in sugar and high in protein and calcium.
Not-So-Good Foods For Teeth
Speaking of snacks, it’s important to stay away from sugary and starchy options. Give chips, crackers, and sweets a pass and go for nuts or cheese instead, or crunch on an apple or a carrot or celery stick.
Avoid sugary drinks as well, and beware of sugar-free choices! You might think you are doing your teeth a favor by opting for a sugar-free product, but sugar substitutes can be just as bad for your teeth as sugar itself. It’s better to choose foods and beverages that naturally contain no or low sugar.
Know What Else is Good for Your Teeth?
Regular dentist visits, that’s what! If you’re looking for ways to make your smile brighter and healthier, use this guide to choose the right foods and make sure to visit Mogren Dental. We’re happy to take a look at your teeth and help you find ways to improve your dental health. Schedule an appointment today to keep your teeth happy, healthy, and strong for life.
