Food to Eat for Healthy Teeth

Besides brushing and flossing, the food we eat plays a significant role in keeping our teeth and gums healthy. Our diet affects not only our dental health but also our risk of developing other health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Therefore, it is crucial to coBesides brushing and flossing, the food we eat plays a significant role in keeping our teeth and gums healthy. 

Let's get to it!

Dairy foods
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are great sources of calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which help strengthen tooth enamel. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, while phosphorus is a mineral that helps keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Additionally, dairy products contain casein, a type of protein that helps reduce acid levels in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.

Leafy Veggies 
Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce and kale, are high in calcium and folic acid. Folic acid has numerous health benefits for our body, including improving gum health. It helps prevent gum disease and supports overall oral health. Leafy greens are also rich in vitamins A and C, which help strengthen the gums and protect against gum disease and other infections.

Crunchy fruits and veggies 
Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots, can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production. Saliva is essential in neutralizing harmful acids in the mouth that cause caries. The act of chewing on crunchy fruits and vegetables also helps remove plaque and stains from teeth. Additionally, fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that protect against gum disease and other infections.

Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds such as almonds and sesame seeds are rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong teeth and bones. Vitamin D helps our body absorb calcium, which is vital for healthy teeth. Nuts and seeds also contain healthy fats that help reduce inflammation and promote gum health.

Lean protein
Lean proteins such as chicken and fish, contain phosphorus, which, when combined with calcium, can help rebuild tooth enamel. Protein is also essential for maintaining healthy muscles and tissues in the mouth. Additionally, lean proteins are rich in vitamin B12, which supports tissue growth and repair in the mouth.

In conclusion…
Oral health is an important aspect of overall well-being. It is important to maintain healthy teeth and gums to prevent various oral diseases. One way to improve your oral health is by incorporating certain foods into your diet. For example, foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk and cheese, can strengthen your teeth and bones. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots, can help clean your teeth as you chew them.

Nonetheless, it is not enough to just eat the right foods. It is also important to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can lead to tooth decay and erosion. Regular brushing and flossing can also help prevent these issues, and it is recommended to visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723869/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16878065/

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/

https://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/the-best-foods-for-a-healthy-smile-and-whole-body/