April 17, 2020

Eat for a Healthy Teeth

Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all the food groups promotes healthy teeth and gums. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein foods, calcium-rich foods and whole grains provides essential nutrients for optimum oral health as well as overall health.

Foods for Optimum Oral Health

1. Cheese
Dairy foods, including cheese, are rich in tooth- and bone-fortifying calcium. Dairy products, such as cheese and milk, also contain the casein protein, which stabilizes and repairs enamel. Not all cheese products are high in calcium though, so be sure to check the label to see what percentage of your daily recommended calcium amount each serving is giving you before you eat it.

2. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens typically find their way onto any healthy foods list. They’re full of vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Leafy greens such as kale and spinach also promote oral health. They’re high in calcium, which builds your teeth’s enamel. They also contain folic acid, a type of B vitamin that has numerous health benefits.

3. Sugarless gum
Pop a stick in your mouth after eating. Chewing boosts saliva secretion, clearing away some bacteria.

4. Green Tea
This healing elixir has many research-backed benefits thanks to its powerful germs and disease-fighting antioxidants, which have the ability to protect teeth by preventing plaque from sticking to them. Teas also typically have fluoride in them, which prevents tooth decay and fortifies enamel. If green tea is too bitter for you, try sipping milder black tea that offers similar protection for your teeth and gums.

In addition to healthful eating, oral health problems can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day, flossing once a day, drinking fluoridated water and seeking regular oral health care.