Your dentist has likely warned you that sugary foods, acidic beverages, and starchy snacks can spell disaster for your teeth. While there are plenty of foods that cause harm, there are also many that are good for oral health. Here’s what you should add to your diet for a stronger, healthier smile.

A Guide to the Best Foods for Oral Health

1. Leafy Greens

Leafy green vegetables like spinach, collard greens, lettuce, and bok choy are excellent choices for a healthy diet. They are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that benefit teeth and gums, including calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Crunchy greens are also good for cleaning teeth and encouraging saliva production. Saliva plays many critical roles in oral health, such as washing down foods that cause cavities and killing bacteria.

2. Lean Proteins

Protein is considered the building block of the body, forming the primary components of everything from the muscles and hair to nails and teeth. Lean protein sources, such as poultry, beans, tofu, eggs, and fish also contain phosphorus. This essential vitamin assists the body in the absorption of calcium and helps protect and rebuild tooth enamel, keeping your teeth strong.

3. Fibrous Fruits and

 Veggies

Sweet and starchy snacks are common causes of cavities. If you’re looking for an alternative, dentists often recommend apples, celery, pears, carrots, and other hard and fibrous fruits and vegetables. Their texture scrapes bacteria and food particles from your teeth, and their hardness stimulates saliva production.

4. Dairy Products

Many dairy products are rich in calcium and protein, including cheese, yogurt, and milk. They can also help neutralize acids in the mouth. Just be sure to choose products with low sugar content. If you are lactose intolerant, look for nut milks like soy and almond that are fortified with calcium and protein.

5. Water

It may not be flavorful, but water is the healthiest beverage you can drink. It helps wash down food and bacteria, contributing to saliva flow when production is low. Fluoridated water is especially beneficial. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, helps prevent tooth decay and cavities.
 

When you need professional oral health care, schedule a visit with Magnolia Dental. Serving the Waynesboro, VA area, this dentist offers a full range of general and cosmetic dentistry services. Whether you need a routine cleaning and checkup or oral surgery, they go above and beyond to ensure you are comfortable and informed about your care. Visit their website for more information about services. To make an appointment, call (540) 943-2723 today.