Even with the proper teeth cleaning habits, such as brushing twice a day and visiting the dentist every six months, your diet has a long-term impact on your mouth. Bacteria feed off sugars and starches and can put you at risk for cavities, tooth decay, and gingivitis. Here are the top ingredients to incorporate into your diet to help your teeth stay strong.

What Foods Promote Healthy Teeth?

1. Nuts 

Nuts contain phosphorus, which boosts collagen in your mouth. Without collagen, bacteria will attack your tender gums and cause an infection that can destroy your jaw and result in tooth loss. 

Almonds and peanuts are also high in calcium, which benefits teeth and gums. Cashews fight bacteria that lead to tooth decay by stimulating more saliva. Walnuts are a powerhouse since they contain fiber, folic acid, iron, Vitamin E, potassium, and zinc. These components give your mouth healthy minerals to feed on, which will make your teeth and gums durable.

2. Apples 

Apples are a hard fruit. All the chewing that goes into eating them neutralizes the malic acids in your mouth and stimulates your gums. Saliva eliminates bacteria and washes out built-up food particles to prevent cavities. As such, apples act as natural teeth scrubbers.

3. Collard Greens

Leafy green vegetables also increase saliva that flushes food and bacteria from your mouth. They work to keep your enamel healthy because of their minerals and vitamins. Greens have calcium to promote bone strength and folic acid and vitamin B to fight gingivitis. Folic acid reduces gum inflammation, while vitamin B eases oral discomfort. Collard greens are crunchy, full of water, and require a lot of chewing, which boosts saliva production. 

4. Yogurt 

Yogurt provides calcium and protein. Calcium boosts the protective enamel layer covering teeth. However, choose sugar-free yogurt since bacteria will feed on sugars and cause cavities. Instead, you can add honey or other natural sweeteners. There are also dairy-free yogurts made from nut milk that is rich in calcium and protein still. Regardless of the yogurt type, it also prevents bad breath.

When you need professional teeth cleaning, trust the dentists at Augusto Fojas, DDS, to take care of you. Located in Westerville, OH, Dr. Fojas and his team offer various services, from routine cleanings to x-rays to preserve your oral health. Call (614) 882-0275 to schedule an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their services.