Your diet has a huge impact on your oral and dental health, so eating the right foods should be a priority. Here are a few examples of healthy foods that will help maintain your tooth enamel and provide you with the right kind of vitamins.
Cheese and dairy – Dairy products are high in calcium, containing hydroxyapatite which helps to render your tooth enamel strong and healthy. Found in cheese, casein is helps to repair tooth enamel. Studies conducted in the US concluded that cheese encourages your mouth to produce more alkaline saliva – this acts as a natural cleanse for your teeth. Eating cheese also lowers the ph level in your mouth, minimising the risk of tooth decay.
Turkey – Turkey contains phosphorous and helps strengthen bones in the jaw as well as teeth.
Leafy greens – Leafy greens are an all-round healthy food, promoting the production of saliva as with dairy products. Packed with vitamins and low in calories, leafy greens such as kale and spinach promote good oral health and hygiene. They also contain vitamin B and folic acid which bring benefits such as battling gum disease in pregnant women.
Apples – although the ADA warn us not to consume foods containing too much sugar, apples are an exception that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet. When you eat an apple saliva is produced which washes away food particles and bacteria. Apples have a fibrous texture that stimulate the gums. When you eat an apple it can be likened to brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and can be used as the next best thing to toothpaste if you are out!
Almonds – Another good source of calcium as well as protein – almonds are also low in sugar. Almonds sometimes receive a bad reputation for being high in calories, but the fats they contain are healthy fats and energy-giving.
Celery – Celery can be a challenge to enjoy – especially for kids! However, it is a source of vitamins A and C which are both antioxidants that encourage healthy gums. In a similar way to apples, celery scrapes the food from your teeth, acting as the natural version of a toothbrush.
If you would like more information on the right foods to eat in order to maintain healthy teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us and we can arrange a consultation for you with one of our doctors.