5 Dental Friendly Foods to Boost Your Diet
Did you know that what you eat can have a huge impact on your oral health? It’s not surprising that the healthiest foods for your teeth and gums are also whole foods with plenty of nutrients. Here are five of the best foods you can eat for both your oral health and your overall health.
Apples
With their thick skin and fibrous flesh, apples act as a natural toothbrush, scrubbing away bacteria, plaque, and food particles from your teeth and gums. Apples also contain an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, so they are a great choice for a healthy snack. Apples do contain sugar and acids though, which can eat away at tooth enamel, so you should always rinse your mouth with clean water after eating an apple.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens are naturally high in calcium, which is great for maintaining hard tooth enamel. Leafy greens also contain vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folic acid. They are high in antioxidants and help protect your body from inflammation.
Yogurt
Yogurt is considered a dental superfood. It is high in calcium for strong teeth, and it contains probiotics, which may slow the growth of bacteria that causes cavities. Yogurt also balances your pH levels and reduces bad breath. It makes a nutritious breakfast or snack for both children and adults.
Almonds
Almonds are another great choice for snacking. They are incredibly high in calcium, plus they are packed with nutrients, including fiber, folic acid, and calcium. They are a significant source of protein and naturally low in sugar. Like apples, almonds gently scrub teeth while you are chewing, and also serve as an appetite suppressant.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes have a huge amount of vitamin A, which will help protect your teeth and gums from decay and inflammation. They have other nutrients too, such as vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. Sweet potatoes are a healthier choice than white potatoes, which have a higher glycemic index.
For a beautiful, healthy smile, consider adding some of these healthy, whole foods to your diet. Your teeth will thank you, and so will your dentist.