Foods That are Good for Your Teeth
The foods you eat not only nourish your body but are also important for healthy teeth and gums. Foods contain nutrients that benefit the development, maintenance, and healing of tissues within the mouth.
- Choose crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, apples, and celery, to help keep teeth clean through saliva production.
- Cheese and other milk products can help neutralize harmful bacteria by reducing acid and balancing pH levels in the mouth. Dairy products also provide Vitamin D and calcium to help keep teeth and bones strong.
- Raisins, shiitake mushrooms, green tea, cashews, and onions also contain ingredients that help reduce bacteria levels in the mouth.
- Green leafy vegetables contain Vitamin A and many B vitamins that are necessary for healthy gums and to prevent the development of gum disease. B vitamins can also be found in whole grains and cereals. Not only are these nutrients important for proper cell functioning, but they prevent deficiencies that can result in dryness and cracking of the lips and the development of ulcers within the mouth.
- Citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers, and other foods that are rich in Vitamin C help with the healing processes inside of the mouth.
- Meats are important for protein and minerals, such as zinc and magnesium. Protein and minerals are necessary for strong and healthy gum tissue.
If you need help deciding which foods you need for better oral health, stop in to see our dentist in North Hollywood for an exam.