Every piece of food that you eat comes into contact with your teeth. In this case, “you are what you eat” becomes “your teeth are what you eat.” The types of foods you expose your tooth enamel to on a regular basis can positively or negatively impact them for years and decades to come.
It’s ok to indulge in treats every now and then. But your day-to-day habits impact your teeth the most. As such, forming healthy habits like a diet that is rich in whole grains, fibrous foods, and low in sugar will be beneficial to your body overall.
There are several good foods that promote dental health. Here are some examples and explanations for why they are beneficial for your teeth:
Dairy Products: Foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium and phosphates, which are essential for strengthening tooth enamel. They also stimulate saliva production, which helps in washing away food particles and neutralizing harmful acids in the mouth.
Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, carrots, celery, and cucumbers require a significant amount of chewing, which helps to produce saliva. Additionally, their natural abrasiveness acts as a mild scrub on the teeth, removing plaque and debris.
Leafy Greens: Vegetables such as kale, spinach, and lettuce are high in fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, which contribute to overall oral health. They also require chewing, stimulating saliva production and aiding in cleansing the teeth.
Green and Black Tea: These teas contain polyphenols that can suppress the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. They also have compounds that can reduce the production of acid by bacteria, protecting the teeth from enamel erosion.
Fish and Lean Meats: Salmon, tuna, chicken, and turkey are excellent sources of phosphorus, a mineral that works in tandem with calcium to strengthen tooth enamel. They also provide protein, which is necessary for maintaining healthy gum tissue.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which promote strong teeth and gums. Additionally, their crunchy texture can help remove plaque while chewing.
It's important to note that while these foods are beneficial for dental health, they should be part of a balanced diet and combined with regular brushing, flossing (and/or cleaning between your teeth), and dental check-ups for optimal oral hygiene.