Did you know that your oral health is intrinsically linked to the health of the rest of your body? For example, if you have gum disease, it can lead to a number of severe issues such as respiratory illness, heart disease, and even stroke! That’s why it is so critical to do everything you can to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. This includes a solid dental hygiene routine: brushing your teeth twice per day, flossing each night, and visiting your dentist every six months. However, you can also take care of your oral health by eating the right foods! Here are a few foods you should consider adding to your diet.
1. Cheese
Cheese has been proven to reduce acidity levels in your mouth. By raising the pH levels in your mouth, cheese will help you to neutralize the acid released by plaque that can harm your dental enamel. Also, cheese can increase your saliva production. Saliva plays a big role in washing away plaque and food debris to keep your teeth and gums in good health.
2. Raisins
Did you know that raisins don’t contain sucrose? This makes raisins an excellent snack to salvage your dental enamel! Sugar is harmful to your teeth as it feeds the bacteria in plaque, allowing it to release acids on your dental enamel. Also, raisins contain phytochemicals that kill bacteria that cause gum disease.
3. Tea
While too much tea can stain the surface of your teeth, there is some benefit to drinking tea in moderation. Green and black teas contain compounds called polyphenols, which slow the growth of harmful bacteria that could otherwise cause cavities and gum disease. Black tea also helps to fight halitosis, or bad breath, and reduce the size and thickness of plaque particles.
4. Fibrous Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables aren’t just filled with nutrients, they’re also great for your teeth! Carrots, apples, celery, and other fibrous foods act just like nature’s toothbrushes! They scrub your teeth as you chew, simultaneously removing plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth.
5. Yogurt
There are a number of reasons that sugar-free yogurt is great for your oral health. For starters, yogurt contains calcium and protein, which strengthens your teeth. Yogurt is also chock full of probiotics, which helps to facilitate the growth of good bacteria over harmful bacteria.
6. Leafy Greens
You’ve likely always known that leafy greens are great for your overall health. This is why it is also no surprise that leafy greens can help your teeth and gums as well! Kale and spinach, for example, are high in calcium, which strengthens your dental enamel. Additionally, the folic acid in leafy greens can help with the treatment of gum disease. Therefore, try to add some leafy greens to every meal to keep your mouth in good health.
Want to make sure you’re in good oral health? Call Caputo Dental in Naperville today to schedule your next routine dental check-up!