National Nutrition Month: Which Foods Can Improve Tooth Health?

When it comes to food and your teeth, you’ve probably heard plenty of advice about what not to eat--limit sugar, avoid sticky textures, brush after candy or sweets, etc.

And while this is all great advice, this week our dentist in Murfreesboro TN want to focus on foods that are actually beneficial for your teeth.

In honor of National Nutrition Month, check out our list of foods that are great for tooth health.

National Nutrition Month: Which Foods Can Improve Tooth Health?

Several foods can improve tooth health by providing essential nutrients and promoting saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay and erosion. As per the dentist in 37129, here are some tooth-friendly foods to include in your diet:

1. Dairy Products:Dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium and phosphorus, which are essential minerals for maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Calcium helps strengthen tooth enamel, while phosphorus supports remineralization and repair of tooth enamel.

2. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables:Crisp fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, celery, and cucumbers have high water content and fibrous texture, which can help stimulate saliva production and naturally cleanse the teeth. Chewing on these crunchy foods also helps remove food particles and plaque from the teeth.

3. Leafy Greens:Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C, which are beneficial for gum health and overall oral health. These nutrient-rich foods help strengthen tooth enamel and promote healthy gums.

4. Nuts and Seeds:Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds are excellent sources of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, all of which are important for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Chewing on nuts and seeds also stimulates saliva production, which can help protect against tooth decay.

5. Lean Proteins:Lean proteins such as poultry, fish, and lean cuts of beef or pork are rich in phosphorus and protein, which are essential for building and repairing tooth enamel. Including lean proteins in your diet can help strengthen teeth and promote overall oral health.

6. Green Tea: Green tea contains catechins, powerful antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Drinking green tea regularly can help reduce inflammation in the gums, fight bacteria that cause cavities, and promote healthy teeth and gums.

7. Water:Water is essential for maintaining oral health as it helps rinse away food particles, bacteria, and acids that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Drinking water throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks, helps keep the mouth hydrated and contributes to saliva production, which helps protect against cavities. Call us to learn more.

Incorporating these tooth-friendly foods into your diet, along with practicing good oral hygiene habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups at Stonegate Family Dentistry, can help promote strong and healthy teeth for a lifetime.

 If you would like to know more about how we can help, please call Dentist in Murfreesboro TNat (615) 624-6919, book an appointment online, or visit us at 206 A N Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.