Foods that Are Healthy for Your Teeth

Obviously, brushing and flossing every day can have a huge impact on the overall health of your teeth. But you should also make sure you are eating certain foods that also help keep your teeth healthy. In fact, your oral health is the first to feel the negative effects of an unhealthy diet.

At Desoto Family Dental Care, we like to educate our patients on oral hygiene practices that can help improve the health of your teeth. Since we previously covered unexpected foods that can damage your teeth, we thought it would be fitting to share some of the foods that are healthy for your teeth as well. Before you call our Hernando, MS office, let us fill you in on some of these foods.

Dairy Products

It should come as no surprise that dairy products are good for your teeth. Milk has a high calcium content that can help keep your teeth and bones healthy. In fact, your teeth and bones store as much as 99% of your body’s calcium, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Another dairy product that is healthy for your teeth is cheese. In addition to the calcium content, cheese can also raise the pH balance in your mouth, which can help reduce your risk for tooth decay. Acidic foods, like coffee and tomato juice, can lower the pH balance. Cheese, however, can increase your saliva production and can help protect the enamel on your teeth. Just make sure there is no added sugar.

Yogurt is also beneficial for your teeth. Since it contains probiotics, your teeth and gums will become healthier. If you choose to eat a lot of yogurt, be sure to choose the plain variety and make sure there is no added sugar.

Leafy Greens

While many of our patients are aware that dairy products are healthy for your teeth, many are surprised to hear the same about leafy green vegetables. Leafy greens are high in a number of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, which is healthy for your teeth. Many leafy greens contain high amounts of folic acid, which may be effective at treating gum disease.

Fibrous Vegetables

Obviously, vegetables are a healthy food. But their benefits extend further than their vitamin and mineral content. Celery, for example, can act as a toothbrush, gently scraping food and bacteria off your teeth. In fact, many fibrous vegetables can perform this same task. Carrots are another one of the most effective fibrous vegetables at removing bits of food and bacteria from your teeth, so be sure to remember celery and raw carrots during your next shopping trip.

Contact Desoto Family Dental Care Today!

While eating foods that are healthy for your teeth can help keep them strong and healthy, you should never forget to brush and floss. Additionally, be sure to visit our Hernando, MS dental office for a checkup and professional cleaning every 3-4 months. You can contact us here or give us a call at 662.429.0539 to schedule an appointment.