Eat Up! 5 Foods That Benefit Your Oral Health

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every six months are the foundation of a good oral hygiene routine. However, there is another crucial component that many patients often forget: a clean diet. In fact, products that are high in sugar, like soda and candy, turn into enamel-eroding acid when they interact with the bacteria in your mouth, significantly increasing your chances of tooth decay. With this in mind, keep reading to learn the foods that benefit your oral health!

#1. Leafy Greens

Kale and spinach are a few leafy greens that are low in calories and packed with nutrients. Plus, they are high in calcium, folic acid, and B vitamins, which are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy from the inside out. If you don’t like the taste, don’t go heavy on the dressing or toppings. Instead, try throwing it in a smoothie with your favorite fruit, some peanut butter, and your milk of choice!

#2. Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

If you have a sweet tooth, then you may be tempted to reach for a candy bar or scoop of ice cream throughout the day. However, vitamin-packed apples are not only naturally sweet, but they also promote good saliva production! Raw veggies, like celery, are also a good snack because their crunchy nature helps scrape away leftover food particles.

#3. Yogurt, Cheese, & Other Dairy Products

Dairy products are one of the biggest contributors to good oral health. To start, they are high in calcium, which promotes strong bones and teeth. Additionally, items like milk and yogurt are white, helping keep your smile stain-free!

#4. Lean Protein

Fish and poultry are a few of the many lean proteins that help keep your teeth happy and healthy. However, if you follow a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, you don’t have to miss out! Alternatives like tofu and almonds are low in sugar and a great source of calcium and protein.

#5. Unsweetened Tea

Although it’s not technically a food, unsweetened tea is another product that can promote good oral health. To begin, this delicious beverage is filled with plaque-fighting ingredients, which will keep cavities at bay. Additionally, reaching for unsweetened tea after dinner can help curb your sweet tooth.

This summer, make sure to fill your diet with the above mouth-healthy foods. Your teeth will thank you for it!

About the Author

Since earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, Dr. Girish Sandadi has spent his days happily helping patients with everything from essential preventive care to last-minute emergency dentistry. Outside the office, he prioritizes continuing education by maintaining an active membership with notable organizations, like the American Dental Association. If you’re interested in learning more about foods that benefit your oral health or you would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at 214-528-9990.