Healthy eating patterns and food choices can help prevent tooth decay.
Taking care of your teeth is not as difficult as you may think. In fact, you can improve your oral health while you eat! According to the American Dental Association, healthy eating patterns and food choices can help prevent tooth decay. On the other hand, choosing foods that are bad for your dental health can negatively impact your oral health. Keep reading to learn what foods are healthy for your teeth and what good habits can help your oral health.
Cheese
This is excellent news for all the cheese lovers out there. Cheese is high in calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. Another fantastic and lesser-known fact about cheese is it contains high levels of phosphate, which helps balance the pH level in your mouth. Balancing the mouth’s pH level is very important for preserving tooth enamel and preventing cavities and gum disease. Additionally, eating cheese after a meal can counteract the acid left behind by the food, making it an excellent choice for dessert.
Fish
We already know how important calcium is for bone health. However, your body requires a sufficient amount of vitamin D to absorb that calcium. Fatty fish, such as salmon, is a fantastic source of vitamin D, which allows your teeth and gums to get the full benefits of calcium from the foods you eat.
Sweet Potatoes
A sweet potato packs a strong dose of vitamin A, which is essential for the health of teeth and gums. Vitamin A strengthens the mucous membranes and soft tissue of the gums. The vitamin is also critical in maintaining keratin, which is an agent that encourages the formation of tooth enamel.
Oranges
Oranges and other citrus fruits are chock full of Vitamin C. Vitamin C improves connective tissue and blood vessels and slows down the progression of gum disease by reducing inflammation. You can enjoy oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits in your fruit bowl, but just remember to wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth after you eat citrus fruits.
Leafy Greens
Vegetables should already be a staple in your diet because they have many health benefits without being fatty or calorie-dense. Green veggies are full of vitamins and minerals and help produce saliva to keep your mouth clean and enamel healthy. Leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, chard, or collard greens are full of vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. These vegetables are high in calcium, folic acid, and B vitamins, which contribute to healthy gums. Consider adding these leafy greens to a salad or smoothie.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!