Diet is a very important part of oral health. Here, our Calgary dentists explain what types of foods can be beneficial to the health of your teeth and gums.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, as you probably know, are high in calcium, a mineral that helps strengthen teeth and bones. This makes them very important for the health of your teeth.
You may not be aware, though, that dairy products are also good for your gums. They contain a protein called casein that helps neutralize acids produced by oral bacteria that can damage tooth enamel and gum tissue.
Foods to Try: Sugar-free yogurt and hard cheeses.
Leafy Greens
Leafy green vegetables contain lots of vitamins and minerals that are good for oral health. They are particularly high in Vitamin C, which boosts the production of red blood cells and reduces inflammation. This can help fight gum disease.
In addition, many leafy greens are high in calcium, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
Foods to Try: Dark leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, broccoli and spinach.
Crunchy Foods
While they’re far from a replacement for a good brushing routine, crunchy foods can help scrape stuck on food and plaque off of your teeth.
They’re also high in fibre, meaning they take longer to chew, and increase saliva flow. A healthy salivary flow is great for oral health because saliva helps flush away bacteria on the teeth and gums.
Foods To Try: Raw fruits and vegetables like apples, celery and carrots.