When you think about changing your diet to improve your oral health, you probably think about cutting back on all those cavity-causing sugary snacks. But that’s not the only way what you eat impacts your smile! In fact, adding certain healthy foods to your diet can boost the health of your gums, strengthen your teeth, and even brighten your smile! Here’s what your Melbourne dentist recommends eating for a natural, delicious way to keep your smile happy and healthy.
Lean Protein and Low-Fat Dairy Products
Since the enamel of your teeth contains no living cells, it can’t repair itself as it’s worn down over time and exposed to acids created by sugars and bacteria. Thankfully, it can absorb the important minerals it’s lost through the foods you eat. Items like cheese, yogurt, nuts, turkey, and canned fish are all great sources of calcium and phosphorus. These vitamins help to rebuild and strengthen your teeth, which lowers their risk of being chipped, cracked, or fractured.
Citrus Fruits and Other Sources of Vitamin C
A buildup of plaque and tartar in your mouth can cause more than just cavities. It can also lead to a bacterial infection in your gum tissue, which is known as gum disease. This infection can cause tender, easily bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, tooth loss, and even potentially heart disease. A strong immune system can help your gums stay healthy and keep gum disease at bay. Vitamin C is an excellent way to naturally fight off infections throughout the body. This important nutrient is found in citrus fruits like orange, pineapples, and lemons. However, it can also be found in less-acidic foods like broccoli, kale, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe as well.
Raw Vegetables and Fruits High in Fiber
Did you know that eating more raw vegetables and fruits could lower your chances of tooth decay? When you eat raw carrots, celery, cucumbers, and apples, they gently scrub the surfaces of your teeth. This removes some of the accumulated plaque that would otherwise cause cavities and discoloration. Chewing these healthy, high-fiber foods also encourages saliva production, which acts as your body’s natural defense against tooth decay. When saliva washes over your teeth throughout the day, it rinses away any lingering good particles and sugars.
Cutting back on sugary treats isn’t the only way to eat your way towards better oral health. Eating these smile-friendly foods is a natural, delicious way to improve your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose of Melbourne, FL is committed to helping you achieve a beautiful smile that promotes better overall health. That’s why she encourages all her patients to get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months to spot and stop any oral health issues as early as possible. It’s also a great chance to go over the best dental routines, oral health habits, and other ways to keep your smile happy and healthy at home. If you like to know more practical and easy ways to improve your oral health, feel free to contact her via her website or at (321) 259-4666.