You are what you eat, and the same goes for your gums and teeth. So when it comes to oral care, your concern should be more than just flossing and brushing. You should adopt many good habits to make sure your smile stays white, bright, and beautiful.
If you’re trying to avoid decay, tooth sensitivity, a darker smile, or any other damage, there are specific foods you should eat regularly, along with practicing dental hygiene. Eating foods that benefit your teeth, what could be better than this?
Milk
You must have heard milk is good for teeth due to its calcium content. Calcium is one of the major minerals that build up the enamel, the outer layer of the teeth. Enamel is the hardest part of the tooth which also protects it. So, any food item high in calcium will be beneficial for teeth overall.
Cheese
Cheese is another beneficial food item for solid and healthy teeth due to its ability to combat acid erosion of the teeth. It is a saliva maker, and the phosphates and calcium in it help put back the minerals your teeth might have lost because of other foods. In addition, milk, cheese, and other dairy products help rebuild tooth enamel.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables with high fiber content are very beneficial for your teeth. The fiber content in certain fruits and vegetables scrubs the teeth just the way your toothbrush does. Fibrous food also stimulates saliva production because of the extra chewing they require.
You can eat salad greens as they have high water content, which is again beneficial for the body. With this, keep carrots, cucumber, apples, and celery at hand and your teeth with thank you.
Broccoli
As said above, broccoli is also an abrasive vegetable that helps remove other pesky foods and plaque from between the teeth. You can use broccoli as a side dish or eat them with your salads. With fiber, broccoli is also rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
Oranges
To your surprise, oranges are also beneficial for your teeth. The Vitamin C content in citrus strengthens the connective tissues and the blood vessels, which help slow down the development of gum disease by eliminating the inflammation. So not just oranges, include grapefruits and other citrus fruits regularly in your diet, and don’t brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes after eating citrus fruits.
Water
You know how important water is for our health and is ideal with every diet. One of the best things you can do for your teeth and the whole body is to drink a lot of water. Water is essential for optimum saliva production in your mouth as it is responsible for the breakdown of food, preventing tooth decay, and neutralizing bacterial acid.
Water also benefits the teeth by rinsing away the food debris and preventing plaque. So, after drinking coffee or any food items that may leave a stain, always rinse your mouth with water.
Chocolate
Surprised? Don’t be. Chocolate is also suitable for teeth as long as it is 70% cocoa and, of course, eaten in moderation. Dark chocolate is highly beneficial for the teeth because of a compound called CBH, which is known to harden tooth enamel that prevents tooth decay.
However, not every chocolate is good for you. Cocoa beans are the good stuff here, so make sure you choose dark chocolate and not regular chocolate. Also, if you have braces, avoid chocolate with nuts and always brush your teeth afterward.
Green Tea
It’s best to avoid black tea as it can cause staining, but there’s everything good with green tea. Green tea has fluoride, which helps build stronger teeth. Also, according to a study published in 2012, the antioxidants in green tea plays an essential role in periodontal health.
Green tea is an excellent choice after a meal as it can suppress certain acid-producing bacteria in the mouth.
The Bottom Line
Your dental hygiene also plays an essential role in your dental health, apart from what you’re eating. Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing regularly. Also, visit your dentist regularly for proper care.
Between your dental visits, these eight food items will help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
