When most people think about oral hygiene, the first thing that comes to mind, and rightfully so, is brushing their teeth! But beyond that, oral hygiene consists of many different things, even including your diet! Certain foods can actually play a huge role in your overall oral health and help to prevent serious problems from developing. Keep reading to learn more from your dentist about some of these mouth-healthy foods.
Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables
If you love a satisfying crunch when you bite into something, there are plenty of hearty fruits and vegetables out there that aren’t just crunchy, but also nutrient-dense and excellent for your oral health! Things like crisp apples, fresh celery, and raw carrots are just a few examples. In addition to being a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A, these items also encourage the mouth’s natural flow of saliva and assist with the removal of food particles and debris that gets stuck in your teeth.
Leafy Greens
Vegetables should be a staple in your diet, as they come with many health benefits and aren’t heavy or calorie dense. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals and help your mouth produce saliva. If you don’t already, opt for eating things like kale, spinach, chard, and collard greens. As long as you don’t go too heavy on the dressings or toppings, you could theoretically eat as many leafy greens as you want!
Dairy Products
Dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, milk, and more are excellent for your oral health! These items are rich in calcium, which promotes strong tooth enamel and can even protect your teeth from harmful acids and bacteria. They contribute to your body’s saliva production and also sometimes contain probiotics for your digestive system. Not to mention, milk is the same color as your teeth, meaning it won’t contribute towards staining!
Lean Proteins
Lean proteins like meat, fish, poultry, and tofu contain phosphorus and protein which both contribute to healthier teeth. Nuts like almonds are also great for your teeth since they’re a great source of both calcium and protein. However, be mindful of food debris becoming stuck between your teeth—it’s recommended that you brush your teeth thoroughly after consuming these items.
Your oral health matters, and everything that you eat can directly influence your teeth and gums. But by adding these foods to your daily diet, you’re contributing to a healthier and happier mouth while enjoying some very delicious foods—it doesn’t get much better than that!
About the Practice
Hill Avenue Dental proudly serves patients and families in the Superior, WI area under the leadership of Dr. H. Douglas Clark III, who was born and raised in Superior himself! Dr. Clark received his dental doctorate from the Marquette University School of Dentistry and is a member of several prestigious organizations including the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His practice is pleased to offer several available services including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit, you can contact the practice online or by phone at (715) 392-5161.