You might not realize this, but the ten foods we have highlighted here at J Street Dental Group can improve your oral health in a major way. Do you recognize any on the list?
Table of Contents
10 Foods & Drinks With Surprising Benefits To Oral Health
1. Milk, Yoghurt, and Cheeses
Any type of healthy dairy product contains calcium that helps strengthen teeth and bones. Cheese and yogurt are ideal because they contain these minerals and vitamins while also being soft for teeth that require extra care. Milk is also great for teeth because it contains roughly the same vitamins and nutrients.
2. Spinach
Spinach and other dark, green vegetables are not only good for the body but also the teeth. Spinach is always a wonderful addition to any plate because while it’s well-known for its levels of iron, it also contains high calcium levels that help rebuild enamel. Others in this category include but aren’t limited to collard greens and kale.
3. Almonds
Almonds and other similar healthy snacks can help with various dental issues. They are great for teeth since they are a rich source of protein and calcium while also being low in sugar. Sugar can adversely affect teeth by raising acidity levels in the mouth, which can badly impact the enamel.
4. Salmon
Salmon has long been considered a healthy food because of its low fat and high protein intake. Protein helps revitalize gums because it is needed to repair damaged muscle tissue throughout the body. It also contains vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium, which allows for healthy bones and teeth.
5. Carrots
Carrots are good for various reasons, especially when consumed raw. Their crunchy texture helps clean teeth acting as a natural toothbrush; you must still brush your teeth correctly. The chewing action also helps massage gums and improve their blood circulation and health. Vitamin A and keratin are also present in the vegetable, which helps repair tooth enamel.
6. Lean Meat
Any type of lean meat, such as chicken, is an excellent source of protein for your gums and teeth. It is also a great source of phosphorus, which is a nutritional mineral that helps with bone production and remodeling. Without enough phosphorus in your diet, teeth can easily chip even if you have a lot of vitamin D and calcium.
7. Celery
Celery is similar to carrots in the way it can affect the mouth by acting as a natural toothbrush to an extent. It also has a great combination of calcium and vitamin K. Vitamin K aids in transporting calcium around the body. Celery also increases saliva production and helps fight gum disease. However, you should still check with your dentist regarding what’s right for you.
8. Black Tea/Green Tea
Drinking cups of black and green tea can help boost your oral health. This is because the drink doesn’t contain any sugar (provided you don’t add any), helps keep saliva in the mouth, and lowers acidity. It also helps wash away dental plaque and reduces cavities, which is great for the mouth. Tea is also a natural source of fluoride that helps strengthen enamel.
9. Apples
As with carrots, apples can also act as a natural toothbrush, but this can be to a lesser extent depending on the variety. Since carrots have low acidity levels, unlike oranges, they may keep not only the doctor away but also the dentist.
Fruits such as oranges are definitely healthy but can impact your teeth by raising the acidity levels in your mouth. Over a sustained period, this may wear down enamel. Fortunately, regularly hydrating with water can help with this.
10. Still Water
Water is perhaps the best drink for your teeth and hydrating the body. Bacteria can build up in your mouth over the course of the day, and drinking water can help your saliva replenish and restore the pH level in the mouth to normal. Since it is not acidic, it has no chance of damaging teeth, unlike other soft drinks.