Maintaining healthy teeth is important for people of all ages. In addition brushing, flossing and seeing an Apex, NC dentist regularly, consider the foods you eat on a daily basis. It turns out that your diet can have a big effect on your teeth. Certain foods can strengthen your teeth while other foods may make you more susceptible to tooth decay and other oral health issues. Here are a few foods that are good for your teeth.
Yogurt and Cheese
These dairy products are one of the best foods you can eat for your teeth. They are packed with calcium and protein, which can help strengthen your teeth. If you eat yogurt and cheese on a regular basis, you may reduce your risk of tooth decay. Try adding a piece of cheese to your sandwiches or eating plain yogurt with fruit.
Apples
The next time you have a craving for something sweet, grab an apple. Apples are packed with delicious sweetness and are tooth-friendly foods. They have a crunchy texture and encourage your mouth to produce more saliva, which can wash away food particles and bacteria. Consider eating whole apples or throwing small slices in your oatmeal or salad.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are beneficial for just about every part of your body, including your teeth. They can help your mouth produce more healthy oral bacteria, ultimately strengthening your teeth. Leafy greens include arugula, spinach, kale and turnip greens.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, like salmon and tuna, are known for fighting inflammation and protecting against vision loss. A lesser known benefit of fatty fish is its ability to decrease the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Citrus Fruits
While acidic foods, like citrus fruits, can increase tooth sensitivity, it is okay to eat them in moderation. Oranges and grapefruits contain high levels of vitamin C, which can reduce gum inflammation.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
If you want to maintain healthy teeth and gums, you will want to limit your intake of certain foods, such as crackers. While crackers might make a great snack, they contain simple carbohydrates, which break down into sugar in your mouth quickly. Bacteria will feast on the sugar, increasing your risk of decay.
Other foods you should eat seldom include dried fruit, candy, carbonated drinks and chips.