The food that we eat can have a significant impact on our body — which includes keeping our teeth healthy. Certain foods we snack on such as chips and processed sugar can remain trapped on our teeth. Over time, this can cause plaque build-up and bad dental hygiene.
Read on to learn which foods are best for your dental health.
Foods that Promote Good Oral Health
There are certain vitamins and minerals that help to strengthen our teeth and fight disease, there are also some foods that simply act as natural floss, such as apples and celery. Some choices that are great for not only your overall health but specifically for your dental health include:
Calcium-rich foods help to strengthen your teeth.
Phosphorous-rich foods protect your teeth from cavity-causing acids.
Foods rich in vitamin C fortify your smile and ward off disease.
Foods rich in folic acid promote the growth of new cells.
If you’re looking to make a tooth-friendly shopping list, here are some of our favorites:
Almonds
Peppers
Dark greens such as broccoli, kale, and spinach
Tomatoes
Citrus fruits
Lean meats
Beans
Eggs
Fish
Yogurt
Cheeses
Hummus
Calcium
All in Moderation
Too much of one thing is never good; while these foods can keep your mouth healthy, a high amount can cause issues. Be mindful of how often you consume starches such as potatoes, and citrus fruits such as lemons, grapefruits, and oranges.
Snack Carefully
Don’t be afraid to add these fortifying foods into your diet, but remember to snack with caution. Each time we consume food, we introduce acid to our teeth, which can cause tooth decay and disease if we’re not careful. It’s always a good idea to brush after you eat, and keep some floss handy at all times.
It’s important to see your dentist regularly to keep your smile shining bright. When you choose Robert A. Neal, DDS Family Dentistry, we treat you like family. Contact us today to set up an appointment.