6 Foods That Benefit Your Tooth and Gum Health

Most of the time, you are told of all the foods and beverages that you shouldn’t be indulging in because of your oral health. When you have foods that are too sugary, starchy, or acidic, you could be looking at tooth decay or other dental problems in the future. The good news is that not every food out there is harmful for your smile. Read on to learn about some foods that you can freely enjoy because they benefit your oral health.

Cheese

Dairy products, like cheese, are great for your oral health because they are excellent sources of calcium. This mineral is necessary in order for you to have strong teeth and bones. Cheese and milk also contain the casein protein, which stabilized and repairs enamel. When you pick out cheese, check the label to see how much of your daily recommended calcium intake it will provide for you.

Leafy Greens

Spinach and other leafy greens are loaded with fiber. This is great for your teeth because it requires lots of chewing and increases your salivary production that will help to clean away food particles and bacteria lingering in the mouth. Try adding a side salad to your meal.

Apples, Pears, Carrots, and Celery

High fiber fruits and veggies are excellent for your oral health because they help to increase your saliva production. This helps to prevent dry mouth. Carrots and celery are great sources of vitamin C and vitamin A. Apples provide hydration and help to satisfy your sweet tooth in the place of candy.

Wild Salmon

Wild salmon is high in omega-3s and is a great source of vitamin D. Without it, your body wouldn’t be able to absorb the calcium it needs to protect and strengthen your teeth.

Green Tea

This drink helps to control bacteria and lower acidity in the mouth. It contains powerful polyphenols which have been shown to reduce the harmful bacteria that are responsible for causing tooth decay. Loose leaf green tea also contains small amount of a natural mineral called “fluoride,” which is known for its tooth strengthening properties.

Almonds

This nut is great for your teeth because it’s a good source of calcium and protein. It is also low in sugar. Instead of reaching for potato chips as a snack, have some salted almonds.

You don’t want to end up with oral health issues in the future. By including many nutritious foods in your diet, your smile will be thanking you!

About the Author

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, Drs. Jerome Faist and Jed Koops provide a wide range of dental treatments to their patients in the Beachwood, OH. They are both members of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association. For more ways to keep your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (216) 464-2448.