The Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth

There is no doubt that good oral hygiene can improve oral health. You should ensure you are brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly. Additionally, professional cleanings and exams should be scheduled every six months at your dental clinic in Longmont. However, with that said, your diet also plays a substantial role in the health of your teeth.

Before you continue reading, ask yourself this important question, “ do the foods I eat help support a healthy smile?” while you think of an honest answer, we will highlight both the best and worst foods for your teeth below.

The Best Foods for Your Teeth

1. Celery

Not only is this vegetable fun to dip, but celery is a Longmont dentists dream. This is because crunchy vegetables, such as broccoli and cucumbers force you to chew more which causes you to produce more saliva. Saliva production is essential in keeping the tissues of your mouth healthy. It also acts as a natural mouthwash to eliminate food particles in the teeth and gums and fights off cavities.

2. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are an excellent source of calcium, vitamin A, fiber and phosphorous. Just as your body will love these vitamins and minerals, so will your teeth. To incorporate chia seeds into your diet, simply add a tablespoon into your morning smoothie!

3. Coconut Oil

Sure coconut oil is useful for cooking, but have you ever considered how you can use it to maintain your dental health? Try swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes. This ancient technique is called oil pulling and helps to remove toxins in your mouth and prevent tooth decay.

4. Dairy

If you’re a cheese, yogurt or milk lover you’re in luck. Dairy products are some of the best foods and beverages for your oral health thanks to all the calcium they contain. Calcium helps to prevent tooth decay and keeps your teeth healthy. In particular, cheese contains the protein “casein” which strengthens and repairs tooth enamel.

5. Fatty Fish

Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acid as well as vitamin D which assists your body in the absorption of calcium and phosphorous. Some healthy and tasty fish options include wild-caught salmon and sardines. Also, according to studies, omega-3 fatty acids have been found to reduce gum disease.

The Worst Foods for Your Teeth

1. Acidic Foods

I hate to break it to you, but it is time to give up your glass of orange juice in the morning. Do you know that when you drink or eat acidic foods it actually breaks down your tooth enamel and causes irreversible damage?

2. White Bread

White bread is notorious for being full of empty calories and refined carbohydrates, but in case you need any more reason to give it up it is also terrible for your teeth. Why? White bread clings into the crevices of your teeth and invites bacteria into your mouth. Once the bread is chewed, its enzymes are converted into sugar which we all know is very harmful.

3. Sports Drinks

Just like soft drinks, sports drinks contain a substantial amount of sugar; some even harbour as much as 13 teaspoons. Also, sports drinks are highly acidic and eat away at your enamel. In fact, one study revealed that sports drinks are more acidic than pop. If you are looking for a healthy way to quench your thirst, choose water instead.

4. Pickles

Pickles are fun to crunch on and have a tangy taste. But did you know that the vinegar in pickles adds to their acidic content. As previously mentioned above, acid contributes to the deterioration of tooth enamel. The next time you’re craving pickles, try chomping on them in one sitting and rinse your mouth afterwards.

5. Dried Fruits

I know what you’re thinking; dried fruit is still fruit right, how bad can it be? Yes… it is but it also contains added sugars. Plus, dried fruits often get stuck in your teeth creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. Your best bet is to opt for fresh fruit instead.