Brushing and flossing your teeth and seeing your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and checkup is a good start to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Unfortunately, that’s not always enough. If you’re looking for other ways to improve your oral health in addition to good oral hygiene, consider adding the following foods to your diet.

Foods That Improve Oral Health

1. Fruits & Veggies

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals needed to keep your teeth strong, particularly leafy greens like spinach and kale. The texture of some raw options, like apples, celery, and carrots help clean your teeth as you eat, which will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. You can easily incorporate these items into your diet by adding them to salads, smoothies, or snacks.

2. Dairy Products

Just as fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, so are dairy products like cheese and yogurt. They’re high in calcium, which strengthens both your tooth enamel and the bones that support your teeth. Moreover, cheese and yogurt neutralize the acids in the mouth that contribute to tooth decay, making them a great post-meal snack or treat. Dentists recommend sticking to yogurts without added sugar and hard cheeses for the greatest benefit.

3. Nuts

If you want a healthy snack or want to add a little crunch to a salad or yogurt, opt for nuts like almonds or cashews. Almonds are rich in calcium, and raw or lightly salted options are also low in sugar. The oil content of cashews, on the other hand, is great for fighting tooth decay-causing bacteria.

By incorporating more of these foods into your daily diet and keeping up with your oral hygiene routine, you will impress your dentist at your next appointment. Residents of Colorado Springs, CO, rely on Peter A. McIntyre, DDS for all their dental health needs, from nutritional tips like the ones above to basic teeth cleanings and extensive work like dental implants. Since 1987, their dentists and periodontists have provided their patients with quality dental treatments in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether your little one is ready for their first checkup with the pediatric dentist or you want to brighten your smile with teeth whitening, call them at (719) 475-2511 for an appointment. Visit the practice’s website to learn more about their services.