It is widely known that your health and well-being largely depend on what you eat and drink. But did you know that your diet also has an enduring impact on your oral health? Anything you consume initially comes in contact with your teeth, gums, and tongue. Sugar in your diet breaks down in the mouth to release acids, which react with the tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. Just like what you eat matters, when and how often you eat is also important. Snacking or eating in frequent intervals increases the risk of cavity formation. So, being mindful of what food and drinks you consume will keep your teeth healthy for a long time.
Read on to learn more about which food and drinks are good for your dental and oral health.
Dairy products like milk, curd, yogurt, and cheese contain ample amounts of calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel and protects it from deterioration. They are also rich in phosphorus, which helps restore minerals lost from the enamel through a process called remineralization.
Vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and kale are rich in vitamins A and C, which are good for gum health. Green leafy vegetables are also sources of fiber. Dietary fiber aids in increasing saliva production, which neutralizes acids and keeps them away from the enamel, thus preventing tooth decay. Green vegetables are a great replacement for dairy for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.
Fruits and vegetables are good for your health, but crunchy ones like apples, melons, celery, and carrots are particularly good for your teeth. They have a high water content, which helps dilute natural sugars that damage the enamel. They also clean your teeth naturally, stimulate your gums, and increase saliva production.
Protein-rich foods like chicken, eggs, and fish are rich in phosphorus, which remineralizes the enamel and protects it from cavities. Fatty fish like salmon, tuna or, mackerel, and egg yolks contain vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption.
Almonds, cashews, sesame, and sunflower seeds are highly beneficial for your dental health. They contain nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and vitamin E, and their crunchy texture helps scrape off plaque deposits.
Strawberries contain a compound known as malic acid, which is known to be a natural teeth whitener. So, make sure to have some strawberries for a naturally bright smile.
Although garlic might stink up your breath, it contains allicin, which has antimicrobial properties. Including some garlic in your diet is a great way to prevent cavities.
Drinking water is one of the easiest ways to keep your teeth and oral cavity healthy. Water flushes food particles and bacteria from the teeth, promotes saliva production, and dilutes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. It also prevents dry mouth by keeping you sufficiently hydrated.
Green tea has polyphenols, which inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth. Green tea also keeps your breath smelling fresh. Remember to drink unsweetened green tea for maximum benefits.
Limit the consumption of foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates and sugary cold drinks to keep your teeth healthy.
Like your overall health, your dental health is also affected by your food. Consuming food and drinks that benefit your teeth lowers the chances of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Your diet, combined with oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice every day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, will give you the healthiest teeth ever!
If you want to visit a dental clinic in Panvel, book an appointment with Dr. Oswal’s SK Dental Care Clinic, one stop destination for all your dental concerns.