Foods that are Good for Your Teeth and Gums

When it comes to taking care of your teeth and gums, one thing that you need to be conscious of it the food that you eat. Sugary food items like candy and soda contribute to the formation of tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, if your diet is less than ideal, one of the first areas of the body that starts to decline if your oral health. If you want to improve your diet and your oral health, check out this healthy food list. • Cheese. A study published in General Dentistry in 2013 found that eating cheese increased the pH of the mouth, thus lowering their risk for tooth decay. It is believed that the chewing that comes with eating cheese increase saliva production in the mouth. Cheese also has protein and calcium, which are essential nutrients that strengthen the tooth enamel. • Yogurt. Just like cheese, yogurt contains high amounts of protein and calcium, which are greatly advantageous to the strength and overall health of the teeth. It also contains beneficial bacterial called probiotics that benefits the gums; good bacteria crowd out the bad bacteria that cause cavities. If you want to consume yogurt for its oral health benefits, opt for the plain variety with no added sugars. • Leafy greens. Leafy greens are teeming with vitamins and minerals and have low calorie content. Spinach and kale especially promote oral health. They have a high amount of calcium that builds the enamel of the teeth. They also have the B vitamin folic acid that has many health benefits, such as treating gum disease in pregnant women. Start to incorporate leafy greens in your diet by adding a handful of kale to your pizza or salad, or to your favorite smoothie. • Apples. Although sweet, apple is high in water and fiber. When you eat it, you produce saliva in your mouth that washes away food particles and bacteria. It also has fibrous tissue that stimulates the gums. Eating an apple might not be the same was brushing the teeth, but it can tide you over until you get the chance to do so. Pack yourself some apple slices to give your mouth a good scrubbing after you eat your lunch. • Carrots. Carrots are crunchy and filled with fiber like apples. Eat a handful of raw carrots after your meal to increase saliva production in the mouth and decrease your risk of developing cavities. Aside from its high fiber content, it is also a great source of vitamin A. Eat baby carrots on their own or add some slices to your salad. • Celery. It might have a negative rep for being watery, bland and filled with annoying strings, but celery can also act like a toothbrush like carrots and apples. It can scrape away bacteria and food particles stuck in the teeth. Celery has a high amount of vitamins A and B – two of the most powerful antioxidants – for healthier gums. Give it a better taste by eating it with cream cheese. • Almonds. Almonds are beneficial for your teeth and gums because they are loaded with protein and calcium, and only contain a low amount of sugar. Add a quarter of a cup of these nuts to your stir-fry recipe or your favorite salad. You can also enjoy a handful along with your lunch.rnAside from adding more fibrous vegetables, leafy greens and dairy products to your diet, it is also important that you look into what you drink. Because it contains no sugar and no calories, water remains to be the best pick, compared to soda or juice. If you have a good and healthy diet, it will definitely show in your smile.