Your teeth are one of the most important parts of your body. After all, without them, it would be much more difficult to nourish yourself!
Aside from brushing your teeth the correct way and having your dentist clean your teeth regularly, there’s one more very important thing you can to ensure your teeth will stay healthy for years to come: eat the right food!
We all know which foods are bad for your teeth, but not as many people know which foods are good for your teeth. So if you want to boost your dental health, make an effort to eat a few more of these foods:
1. Is Milk Good For Your Teeth? Yes!
Yogurt, milk, and other dairy products encourage saliva production, are packed with calcium, and provide an enamel-strengthening source of protein. Plus, in the case of yogurt, the probiotics they contain can help with gum health! Just make sure you choose sugar-free yogurt whenever possible.
2. Tea
Both black and green tea contain polyphenols. This plant compound slows the growth of bacteria, which means that decay is slowed too.
3. Water
You probably know that staying well-hydrated is a key component of your overall physical health, but did you know that water is good for your teeth too? Water washes away food particles without leaving trace amounts of sugar behind like sodas do. Water can also help prevent cavities if it contains fluoride. You can find out if your water contains fluoride by clicking here.
4. Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing gum after a meal can boost saliva production and help you naturally wash away food and bacteria. Plus, sugar free gum is much better for you than gum containing sugar.
5. Nuts
Most nuts are filled with minerals and vitamins, like calcium, vitamin E, and several of the B vitamins. Nuts are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially walnuts, almonds, and pecans.
6. Are Apples Good For Your Teeth? Absolutely!
Apples are full of water and fibers. Fiber is like natures way of brushing your teeth, as its rough texture stimulates the gums. It’s important to note that because apples do contain natural sugars, you should brush your teeth after eating them.
7. Carrots
Raw carrots are one of the best natural sources of vitamin A there is. They’re also full of fiber, so they’ll help with gum stimulation and cleaning just like apples will.
8. Celery
Those little celery string may be annoying, but they’re pretty useful when it comes to getting icky stuff off your teeth. Fun fact: celery is also full of vitamin A and vitamin C!
9. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like kale, collards, and spinach, and are full of vitamins and minerals like folic acid and calcium. Plus, they’re full of fiber. If you aren’t sure which is best, keep in mind that typically, the darker the green, the more nutrient-packed it is.
Unfortunately, sometimes dental procedures are necessary. If you need help with your dental health, consider the Wilmington, North Carolina dentists at Salling & Tate. We specialize in everything from routine procedures to things like sedation dentistry, Invisalign®, and teeth whitening. Contact us at 910-256-9040 or click here to make an appointment online.