A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and building strong bones and muscles. Did you also know that the foods you eat directly impact your teeth? Discover some of the best foods for healthy teeth and make them part of your diet for optimum dental health.
Dairy Foods
Consuming dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese benefits your overall health thanks to their high levels of minerals and nutrients, including;
- Protein
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B12
- Calcium
- Phosphorous
- Magnesium
The combination of calcium, phosphorus, and a protein called casein produces a strong film over your tooth enamel. The main purpose of enamel is to protect your teeth from decay. By eating dairy products, you’ll enhance the enamel’s strength and maintain healthy teeth.
Green Tea and Water
If you get your caffeine fix every day from a cup of coffee, consider swapping it with a cup of green tea. Coffee can stain your teeth whereas green tea contains antioxidants that provide benefits like:
- Eliminating plaque-causing bacteria
- Reducing inflammation
- Preventing gum disease and tooth bone loss
Along with drinking green tea, make sure you hydrate with plenty of water every day. Refreshing water helps wash away food residue that can cause plaque between your teeth and it contains safe levels of fluoride which prevents tooth decay.
Fatty Fish
One of the best foods for healthy teeth is fish like salmon or mackerel. These fish contain high amounts of Vitamin D which is essential for helping your body absorb tooth-strengthening calcium from other food sources. Incorporate fish into your diet along with calcium-rich foods like yoghurt, cheese, and leafy greens.
Fruits and Vegetables
Your teeth benefit from tons of fruit and vegetables depending on their nutrients. Foods like broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes are dense with Vitamin A and help boost enamel production. Chomp down on some celery or apples and you’ll receive some of the same cleaning benefits as brushing your teeth.
Strawberries have the unique benefit of containing malic acid. This enzyme serves as a natural teeth whitener so you can have a brighter smile.
Dark Chocolate
Dentists usually don’t recommend eating a lot of sweets since they can lead to cavities. However, you can get your fix with dark chocolate and not worry about it harming your teeth.
The key ingredient behind dark chocolate’s dental benefits is cocoa bean husk. Studies show it helps protect your tooth enamel so you’re less prone to tooth decay. Stick to eating chocolate that contains at least 70% cacao and enjoy it in moderation.
Chewing Gum
Treat yourself to a stick of sugar-free chewing gum and you’ll be preventing tooth decay. When you chew gum, you’ll produce more saliva that ultimately washes excess sugars from your mouth. This simple action helps your body fight the bacteria in your mouth.
By eating these foods for healthy teeth, you can prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. Visit Coast Family Dental to receive superior all-around care for your teeth and gums. Call (07) 5437 9000 to make an appointment.
