Mouth-Healthy Foods that Benefit Your Teeth and Gums

You’ve heard the saying “you are what you eat,” but did you know the foods you consume affect more than just your waistline? Your diet can also influence the health of your teeth and gums. While you know you’re supposed to limit sugary snacks and drinks, your dentist in the Lehigh Valley encourages you to choose foods that support a healthy mouth. Here are some of the best foods to include on your plate to nurture your oral health.

Healthy Foods for Your Smile

Brushing and flossing are crucial to preventing common dental issues; however, the American Dental Association also recommends healthy eating patterns to combat tooth decay and gum disease.

Whole Grains

It’s best to choose whole grain bread and cereals that are low in sugar. Whole grains that are good sources of protein include:

• Whole wheat
• Whole oats
• Brown rice

Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits contain protein, and they are fibrous. As a result, they can help reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth by encouraging saliva production to cleanse your teeth in between brushing and flossing. Great fruits for your smile include:

• Apples
• Berries
• Kiwi

Dairy Products

Dairy products increase saliva production to keep your mouth clean, but they are also high in calcium and protein. Low-fat dairy products are crucial to keeping your teeth strong. Unsweetened yogurt is a perfect snack to preserve your enamel while also aiding your digestive tract because it contains probiotics. Your dentist also recommends:

• Low-fat cheese
• Low-fat milk
• Calcium and protein-fortified almond milk

Leafy Greens

Vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals to promote your oral and overall health. Dark leafy greens are ideal because they contain vital nutrients while also being low in calories. They are great sources of calcium, folic acid, and B vitamins to boost your general wellness, including:

• Kale
• Spinach
• Collard greens

Vegetables

Crispy vegetables are the perfect alternative to a sweet snack. Not only can they keep you hydrated and provide fiber, but they also act as scrub brushes for your teeth. Chewing crispy vegetables can scrap leftover food particles from your teeth, such as:

• Carrots
• Celery
• Broccoli

Lean Proteins

Lean proteins contain phosphorus and protein to keep your teeth strong. Besides meat, fish, and poultry, nuts are also great. Almonds provide calcium and protein while having a low sugar content, as well as:

• Brazil nuts
• Cashews
• Peanuts

Invest in a Healthy Smile

Don’t let your snacks and meals leave a negative mark on your smile. Choose foods that benefit your oral health to reduce your risk of common dental issues, like cavities. With a healthy diet, you can invest in a healthy mouth and body.

About Dr. S. John Salivonchik

Dr. Salivonchik has over 20 years of experience in dentistry. Besides earning his dental degree, he regularly attends advanced training in many specialties, like computer-based guided implant surgery and laser dentistry. Due to his career excellence, he has been featured on many major news programs. If you need an exceptional dentist you can trust, contact our office today for an appointment.