Foods To Feed Your Teeth

We all know which foods we to avoid that can be harmful to your teeth, but do you know what foods are healthy for your teeth and why?

Samantha, a licensed and certified dental assistant, and administrative assistant at Family Dentist Tree is here to help you out!

First up on the list is milk. Yep! Your mom was right! Milk is a great source of calcium which is a key ingredient in strengthening tooth enamel. Cheese is another great source of calcium. It can also aid in neutralizing the acid levels in your mouth and promoting saliva flow, a natural defense against cavities, gum disease, germs and bad breath. Cheese also contains a protein called casein, that combines with calcium to play a role in stabilizing and repairing tooth enamel.

Next on the list is raw vegetables.  Carrots, cucumbers, and celery are great snack ideas that stimulate saliva flow and contain beta carotene, an organic compound that helps produce Vitamin A to build strong teeth. The crunchiness of these foods actually cleans your teeth as your chewing and disrupts bacteria from settling on your teeth.

Fish! Wild salmon, trout, mackerel, fresh tuna, and herring are among many fresh fish that contain Vitamin D. Vitamin D is necessary to help your body absorb and use the calcium that helps protect your teeth.

If you’re looking for something sweet, fruits such as apples, pears, and strawberries also have the crunch factor that vegetables have that helps scrub away food particles and stimulates saliva flow. Oranges are high in Vitamin C and helps keep your gums and connective tissue healthy. Although these fruits are good for your oral health, you want to limit the amount of citrus fruit you consume because the acid can damage tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of your tooth. It is a good idea to drink water after consuming citrus fruit to help wash away food debris and help lower the acidic level present in the mouth.

If you’re wanting something with even more of a crunch, peanuts, cashews, almonds, and walnuts are packed full of vitamins and minerals that promote healthy teeth and saliva flow.

Last, but certainly not least, is tea. Plain black and green teas contain natural antioxidants that interact with and disrupt the bacteria that cause plaque. Tea also contains anti-inflammatory agents that can promote healthy gums that can help with periodontal issues. Remember, though, that too much tea can stain your teeth, and adding sugar will produce acids that can cause decay.

Try eating and drinking some of these foods for healthy teeth and gums, and keep sweets and soda to a minimum. This, along with regular visits to your dentist will help you be able to enjoy your teeth for many years to come!