What foods are good for your teeth?

Caring for your oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. As the rest of the body, your mouth also benefits from the nutrition found in food that you eat. Here are some of the best food for your teeth.

Cheese

Dairy products, like cheese, helps strengthen the teeth and bones. Cheese fights off acid attacks to your teeth and reduces your risk for cavities. After your teeth are exposed to sugary or starchy food, eating cheese can help increase saliva production and balance pH levels in the mouth.

Yogurt

Plain, sugar-free yogurt helps fight bad bacteria in the mouth, thanks to its probiotic (good bacteria) content. And since yogurt knocks out germs, it also helps reduce cavities, plaque, gum disease, and bad breath.

Yogurt is also rich in calcium that helps keep the teeth strong. Children that resist brushing may especially benefit from eating yogurt. It is not a substitute for brushing, but it can help prevent the build-up of bacteria.

Fish

Adding seafood to your diet can also be good for your teeth and gums. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help manage inflammation and lower your risk for gum disease. Fish is also packed with vitamin D that allows your body to absorb calcium from the food you eat.

2. Fruits and Vegetables

Packed with fibre, crunchy fruits and vegetables stimulate saliva production, help wash away debris in your mouth and freshen breath. Because they’re high in water content, they’re often referred to as natural toothbrushes. Chewing on crunchy food also massage gums.

What’s more, antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables also help protect gums and tissues from bacterial infection. Folic acid, meanwhile, in green leafy vegetables promotes cell growth and also helps keep the mouth healthy.

Pineapple

Pineapples have bromelain that helps reduce inflammation and speed up healing. It also helps break down plaque, which is why it is also referred to as a natural stain remover.

Acidic fruits can be damaging to the tooth enamel due to their high content. But you can still benefit from them by eating them in moderation and knowing how to protect your teeth while indulging in them. For instance, waiting for at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth will help prevent enamel erosion.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has polyphenols (also found in green and black tea) that neutralize bad breath causing bacteria, fight tooth decay, and prevent gum infections. Dark chocolate also contains CBH which helps strengthen the tooth enamel.

If you’re craving for a dessert, consider opting for dark chocolate as its antibacterial properties can be good for the teeth. Don’t forget to brush still.

Eating Your Way to a Healthier Mouth

Aside from choosing a diet that’s good for the teeth and the rest of your body, it’s also important to know when and how to eat them. Avoid grazing throughout the day to minimize acid exposure of your teeth. And be sure to drink water to flush down food debris in your mouth.