Which Foods Promote Healthy Teeth?
Maintaining good oral health doesn’t just mean avoiding foods, drinks and habits that are harmful to your teeth, it also involves actively consuming foods that help to protect and strengthen your teeth. Read on to find out which foods to include in your diet to promote optimal oral health.
Green tea
Tea has earnt a bad reputation because of its association with stained teeth, however contrary to popular belief, green tea actually promotes good oral health. Green tea is high in polyphenols, which are known to reduce oral bacteria and control the acidity of the mouth. Green tea has also been found to reduce gum bleeding and tooth decay, leading to better overall oral health.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, cucumbers, celery and carrots help to scrub plaque and stain causing substances from the teeth, reducing the likelihood of cavities. Fruits and vegetables like these have a high water content, which dilutes the sugars they contain and helps to stimulate saliva production. Crunchy foods also improve gum health, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Dairy
Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt are high in calcium and vitamin D, both of which promote strong, healthy teeth and bones. Cheese also increases the mouth’s pH level, making it less acidic. This lowers the risk of tooth erosion and aids the production of enamel.
Probiotics
Probiotics are not only great for your gut health, they’re also thought to suppress the growth of oral pathogens, resulting in a reduction of periodontal diseases. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yoghurt, kombucha, kimchi, miso soup, tempeh, pickles and sauerkraut.
Green vegetables
Dark green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and kale are rich in folic acid, which reduces the risk of gingivitis and promotes overall cell growth throughout the body.
Fresh cranberries
Cranberries are rich in anthocyanins, which can prevent oral bacteria from attaching to teeth, reducing erosion and the buildup of plaque. It’s important to consume fresh cranberries however, as dried cranberries are high in sugar.
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate contains a bitter powder called theobromine, which helps to harden tooth enamel, making them stronger and reducing staining and discolouration.
Through the inclusion of these “teeth friendly” foods in your diet, along with good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental appointments, you will ensure yourself optimal oral health. Eden Rise Dental Clinic are a trusted dental clinic in Berwick, offering general dental services, cosmetic dentistry and intervention such as root canal therapy.