Eating Foods that are Healthy for Your Teeth

It’s true- you really are what you eat!

Sugary foods will contribute to tooth decay, and who wants that?!

Use this list of  healthy foods to not only improve your diet, but also to improve health of your mouth.

Cheeses

Yes! You now have another reason to eat and enjoy this delicious food. A study from 2013 in an issue of  the journal of the American Academy of General Dentistry found that eating cheese raised the pH level in the mouth and lowered the risk of tooth decay. Chewing required to eat cheese also increases saliva in the mouth, and, cheese contains calcium, protein, and other nutrients that strengthen your tooth enamel. Score!

Yogurts

Just like cheese, yogurt is high in calcium and protein. These are essential to the health of your teeth! The probiotics found in yogurt benefit your gums because it contains good bacteria which out-numbers bad bacteria that cause cavities. If you decide to add more yogurt to your diet, choose a plain one without any added sugar.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens- a no-brainer! They’re packed with minerals and vitamins, and also are low in calories. They’re even high in calcium, which builds your teeth’s enamel. Leafy greens also contain folic acid, a type of B vitamin that has numerous health benefits, including possibly treating gum disease in pregnant women. Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, and spinach promote great oral health. If you have trouble incorporating greens into your diet, try to add a handful of baby spinach into your next sandwich, salad, or on top of your pizza. Kale and spinach are also really tasty when added to fruit smoothies! YUM.

Apples

Any dentist would recommend steering away from sweet foods, but luckily there are some exceptions! Fruits like apples may be sweet, but they’re also high in water and in fiber. The action of eating an apple produces saliva in your mouth- which rinses away bacteria and food particles on your teeth. The fibrous texture of apples also stimulates your gums! Eating an apple isn’t the same as brushing your teeth as they may say, but it can hold you over until you have a chance to use a toothbrush. Pack apple slices or the whole apple in your lunch to give your mouth a good scrubbing at the end!

Carrots

Just like ike apples, carrots are crunchy and they’re full of fiber. Eating a handful of raw carrots at the end of meals increases saliva production in your mouth. This reduces your risk of cavities! Carrots are also a fantastic source of vitamin A. Add carrots on top of your salad, or eat baby carrots raw!

Celery

Celery might get a bad reputation for those pesky strings, but like carrots and apples, it acts like a toothbrush. It scrapes food particles and bacteria away from teeth. It’s also a great source of vitamins A and C, which are antioxidants that boost your gum’s health. Make celery tastier by eating it with some cream cheese!

Almonds

Almonds are a good source of calcium and protein while being low in sugar. Enjoy a handful of almonds with your lunch, or add them on top of a salad, or to a stir-fry dinner! They’re great with veggies!

Along with eating leafy greens, dairy products, and fibrous vegetables, remember to pay some attention to what you’re drinking!

Since water has no calories or sugar, it’s always the best pick, especially compared to pop or juices. Your diet plays a huge part in a healthy smile!