The premise is that consuming fried, sugary, greasy, highly processed, and nutritionless meals will not benefit you. You may not only become slow and overweight, but you are also at risk of getting heart problems, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, asthma, some malignancies, depression, and other conditions. In truth, the statement has never been truer than when it comes to our teeth: consuming unhealthy meals causes tooth decay and foul breath!
What Foods and Drinks Are Best For Healthy Teeth and Your Dental Care?
When you think about it, it’s no surprise that the foods that are excellent for your body also benefit your teeth and gums. After all, food and drink travel through the mouth first. However, certain “dental superfoods” can actually improve your mouth health. What are they, and what do they do? You might be shocked by what’s on the list, aside from the conventional healthy options.
Best Food and Drinks for Healthy Teeth and Gums
- Dark chocolate. You might be shocked to see chocolate on this list. However, it contains CBH, a chemical that helps strengthen tooth enamel.
- Almonds. These nuts are high in protein and calcium, and chewing them can help scrape off plaque.
- Garlic. This may sound paradoxical, but garlic may create foul breath. However, allicin, a garlic-derived chemical, prevents the germs that cause tooth decay from developing in the mouth.
- Leafy greens. These are high in calcium, vitamin A, folic acid, and vitamin C, which can help keep your teeth healthy. They also contain fewer calories.
- Cheese. Cheese, like other milk products, can help to strengthen bones.
- Salmon. This and other fatty fish include vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which help to maintain gum health.
- Fruits and veggies. These are extremely beneficial to your dental health since they help destroy some oral germs, function as a natural toothbrush, and provide vitamins, among other things.
- Strawberries. These include malic acid, which is a natural teeth whitener.
- Unsweetened yoghurt. This supplies calcium for healthy bones, teeth, and enamel.
- Green and black tea. These beverages do more than just make you feel relaxed. They contain fluoride, which prevents tooth decay and reduces gum irritation.
Keep in mind that all of these dental superfoods contain vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants that promote tooth and gum health:
- Vitamin C helps the connective tissues of your gums.
- Vitamin D helps to mineralise teeth and fights inflammation and decay.
- Vitamin A promotes saliva production, which helps to remove germs and food from teeth.
- Calcium helps to strengthen bones and teeth.
- Phosphorus aids in calcium absorption and tooth enamel repair.
- Polyphenols, for example, act as antioxidants, neutralising free radicals and repairing damage in the mouth.
In most cases, eating a balanced diet rich in foods for tooth health will automatically give these vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, if you are concerned about your levels, consult a Penn Dental Medicine dentist or your doctor before taking any supplements.
Other Benefits of Eating Foods for Your Teeth
Eating nutritious meals not only reduces the likelihood of acquiring health concerns or mitigates their consequences, but it also makes you feel better. You will have greater energy to carry out your everyday duties. You may also notice improved digestion, better sleep, and a greater sense of well-being.
