Strong teeth play an important role in how well your food is digested. To ensure that you have healthy teeth, it’s essential to pay attention to what you eat. So, let’s discuss the top six nutritional foods that will give you a lifetime of healthy smiles.
1. Foods Rich in Protein
Protein is essential for the body to build healthy tissues and revitalize tissues that are wearing out. High levels of phosphorous are found in protein. Phosphorous is vital for both strong teeth and a strong jaw. In addition, this mineral helps to balance pH levels in the mouth, inhibiting the formation and growth of cavity-causing bacteria. Good sources of protein include meat, eggs, nuts, tofu, beans, and green leafy vegetables.
2. Foods Rich in Calcium
Calcium is a mineral that’s essential for strong teeth and bones. Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, and other dairy products, sesame seeds, and calcium-fortified foods. For the lactose intolerant, soy milk is a good substitute for dairy.
3. Foods Rich in Vitamin D
Vitamin D assists in the proper utilization of calcium and thus helps to develop tooth enamel and prevent the enamel from wearing away. If the body does not absorb enough calcium, it will break down the calcium in the teeth and bones, making them brittle. Fish is the primary source of vitamin D and it can also be found in supplements like cod liver oil capsules.
4. Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps to eliminate the acid-creating bacteria that reside on the surface of teeth. This vitamin also nourishes the cells that are involved in tooth formation. High levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants that help to maintain oral health can be found in fruits such as apples, cranberries, grapefruit, kiwis, limes, oranges, and strawberries.
5. Foods Rich in Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is important for strong teeth and a strong jaw. High levels of magnesium can be found in whole grains such as barley, corn, oats, brown rice, and wheat. Avoid processed grains as they have a tendency to dissolve into sugars in the mouth, with detrimental effects on teeth.
6. Foods Rich in Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that benefits teeth by helping to prevent tooth decay. Foods that contain fluoride include tea, which is an excellent alternative to coffee, which can stain teeth. Green tea also comes with polyphenols that help prevent plaque from adhering to the surface of teeth. Fluoride has been added to many local water systems and toothpastes.
For Strong Teeth, Don’t Forget to Drink Water
Drinking water acts as a mouthwash to remove bacteria from your mouth. At Old Mt. Pleasant Dentistry, we recommend staying away from sugars, acidic foods and drinks, sodas, and highly-processed foods. If you think your teeth are unhealthy for any reason, and you live in our neighborhood, please book an appointment with one of our professional and friendly staff. We aim to keep your teeth as strong as possible.
