There are many foods and drinks in your pantry that can help protect your teeth from decay and damage. Of course, good dental hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting our dentist’s office every six months are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But, there’s no denying certain foods and drinks offer surprising oral health benefits. Check out these seven foods and beverages that can contribute to optimal oral health.
Our Gainesville dentist office offers various dental services to ensure your teeth stay healthy and strong. Our knowledgeable team is always happy to offer advice and guidance on maintaining a healthy mouth. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist office in Gainesville, FL.
Green Tea
Green tea is packed with compounds called catechins, which have been shown to reduce plaque buildup and fight bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath and cavities. Be mindful to choose unsweetened green tea as sugary drinks can lead to tooth decay.
Cranberries
The antioxidants found in cranberries can help protect your teeth from cavities, as they prevent bacteria from sticking to the tooth’s surface. Eating fresh or frozen cranberries is ideal, but no-sugar-added juices containing cranberry extract may also offer some of the same benefits.
Apples
Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins, but not many know their crunchy flesh offers a natural form of tooth brushing when chewed. Biting into an apple also produces saliva which helps to rinse away food particles and other debris stuck between teeth.
Cheese
Calcium-rich foods, such as cheese, help fight tooth decay by balancing the acidity levels in your mouth. Eating cheese also increases saliva production, which helps to wash away cavity-causing bacteria and food particles.
Yogurt
Like cheese, yogurt is full of teeth-strengthening calcium and can help restore an acidic balance to your mouth. It also contains probiotics, which can promote healthy gums and reduce inflammation. Greek yogurt is especially beneficial as it tends to have more protein than regular yogurts.
Celery
Eating crunchy vegetables, such as celery, can help remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth. Its fibrous texture helps to scrape off food particles stuck to the surface of your teeth.
Water
Drinking water promotes overall health and helps wash away lingering food particles and residue. Rinse your mouth with water after eating and drinking to neutralize tooth-eroding acids in your mouth and prevent them from sitting on your teeth. This will help prevent staining and tooth decay.