Foods that are good for your teeth
You probably don’t need a dentist to tell you that eating a lot of sweets, drinking a lot of fizzy drinks and consuming sugar is bad for your teeth. However what you may not realise is that there are foods out there that are good for your teeth. Below are a few to add to your shopping list for that special smile diet!
What should I be looking for?
Keep an eye out for foods and drinks that are rich in antioxidants. These natural compounds help to reduce plaque formation and thereby reduce bad breath. Green tea is a good example as some brands also have fluoride in them, helping to further reduce plaque build up.
Is it true that dairy foods are good for teeth?
Some people actively avoid dairy due to reports that it can increase acne and is often associated with an unhealthy diet. While it is true if you are lactose intolerant you ought to avoid it dairy foods such as skimmed milk and low fat yoghurt can help to reduce tooth decay. Furthermore they often tend to work well as filling snacks, keeping you away from the more harmful sugar fix!
Fruit naturally contains sugar. Does this mean it is bad for my teeth?
Simply put…no. While it is true that sugars in fruit juices can be bad for your teeth if you have whole, raw and natural fruits as part of your diet this will reduce the risk of gum disease forming as Vitamin C prevents the gums from becoming tender.
Can I really clean my teeth with vegetables?
This is true…sort of. Obviously you still need to brush your teeth and maintain oral health. However vegetables such as sweet potato and carrots contain a lot of Vitamin A and this contributes to the formation of tooth enamel. If you eat raw vegetables such as celery it massages gums and makes the teeth cleaner, as well as producing the saliva that breaks down the nasty cavity creating bacteria.
What about drink?
You have probably read about the benefits of drinking eight glasses of water a day and how it can keep your skin looking healthy and so forth. What you may not know is that drinking water also helps to clear out particles on the teeth and clean out your mouth. It is also a relatively simple thing to do- a glass of water with each meal equates to three glasses, a bottle with exercise and a couple before bedtime and there you have it!
Should I talk to my dentist about my diet?
Please do! Your dentist can help advise you on the right kind of foods to keep your teeth clean and maintain good overall health. In short, don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the most from your appointment!
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