Top 10 Foods that Help Keep the Teeth Healthy

When it comes to keeping your teeth healthy, you likely know you should limit sugar and brush and floss regularly. However, did you know that some foods can contribute to the health of your teeth and gums? Below is a list of ten foods that keep teeth healthy. Add them to your diet and enjoy in moderation.

Dairy Products – Dairy products are loaded with calcium, an important mineral for healthy bones and teeth. In addition to strengthening your teeth, calcium can coat your teeth and counteract the damaging effects of acids in your mouth. Some of the best choices are:

1. Low-fat or skim milk – Get your calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients by drinking milk every day. Alternately, you could substitute unsweetened, low-fat yogurt for milk.

2. Cheese – According to Dental Health Magazine, not only does cheese contain calcium, it can help with saliva production, balance PH levels in the mouth, and protect tooth enamel.

Fruits and Vegetables – Fruits and vegetables also play an important role in nourishing your body and keeping your teeth healthy. Below are several good choices:

3. Figs – Loaded with both calcium and protein, figs are super fruits that taste delicious and can contribute to your oral health.

4. Oranges – Rich in vitamin C, oranges pack a powerful punch. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, if you have too little vitamin C, you could experience loose teeth and bleeding gums.

5. Spinach – In addition to being nutritious, spinach can prevent stains from coffee, red wine, and cola from penetrating enamel.

6. Raw veggies – Enjoy the crunch, flavor, and nutrition of carrot sticks, celery, and other raw veggies and help your teeth at the same time. Chewing raw veggies stimulates saliva with strengthens teeth and neutralizes acids.

Animal Foods – Animal foods such as red meat, chicken, and fish are loaded with proteins, iron, phosphorous, and calcium – all essential for strong bones and teeth. Chicken and fish are also rich in vitamin B3 (niacin), which can counteract a B3 deficiency, canker sores, and bad breath. Two animal foods that pack a lot of nutrition include:

7. Sardines – With 569 mg of calcium and 37 grams of protein in a cup, sardines pack a lot of nutrition into a small package.

8. Red meat – Red meat and liver are excellent sources of iron. The Academy of General Dentistry says that iron deficiencies can cause mouth sores and an inflamed tongue.

Liquids – Not all foods for healthy teeth take a solid form. In fact, two are liquids:

9. Water – Water hydrates the body and is essential for life. It also washes away food particles, acids, and germs, and allows the saliva to do its job more efficiently. In some communities, fluoride is added to water, which can aid in preventing cavities.

10. Green tea – Loaded with antioxidants, green tea is well known for delivering health effects. In the mouth, green tea can inhibit the growth of bacteria which can cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

All of the foods above can improve the health of your teeth. While you’re at it, avoid sugary foods, gum, candy, sodas, and fruit juices and limit your intake of carbohydrates and sticky chewy foods.