What To Eat For Healthy Teeth

They say “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” So for those who are looking for strong teeth, one of the questions is, “What to eat for healthy teeth?”

When it comes to maintaining healthy teeth, eating good things is very important. Instead of focusing on the negative – things you shouldn’t eat too often – we’re going to take a look at the types of food and drink that promote healthy teeth.

Food and Drink that Promote Healthy Teeth

1.) Tea.

Polyphenols found in black and green teas slow the growth of bacterias associated with cavities and gum disease. A Japanese study found that drinking green tea everyday reduced gum recession and bleeding – both are indicators of gum disease.

2.) Cheese.

Cheeses help neutralize plaque acid. Plus, the calcium in cheese helps put minerals back in your teeth that may have been lost from eating other foods.

3.) Raisins.

Phytochemicals in raisins kill cavity-causing plaque bacteria. Phytochemicals are antioxidants found in plants. A study found that they fight the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.

4.) Carrots, cucumbers and apples.

Crunchy food clear away bacteria stuck on your teeth. The action of chewing crunching water based foods produces saliva in your mouth which rinses away bacteria.

5.) Fish and almonds

Vitamin rich foods like fish and almonds help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Harvard scientists have tied omega-3 acids found in fish with lower incidents of gum disease. Apparently, the Omega-3 fats reduce inflammation. Nuts, like almonds, have good amounts of fiber and other vitamins. The calcium in almonds is also beneficial to teeth and gums.

6.) Sugarless gum.

Chewing sugarless gum boosts saliva secretion which helps clear away bacteria. As long as your gum is sugarless, you’re strengthening your teeth and reducing tooth decay.

7.) Milk.

Milk helps lower levels of acid in the mouth. Your teeth get healthier and stronger from milk because of the calcium it contains. Calcium also keeps your jaw bone strong and protect your teeth against gum disease.

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While it doesn’t replace regular brushing and flossing, eating right is part of the equation to promote healthy teeth. So, when you take a bite into that apple today, you can feel good that you’re doing something positive for your teeth.

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Smiles at France provides cosmetic, restorative, implant and preventive dentistry from their office at 50th and France – where Minneapolis meets Edina. Dr. David A. Cook and team are dedicated to helping you keep your teeth for a lifetime, in optimal health, comfort, function and appearance.