Besides brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, the food you eat also plays a significant role in your dental health. Here’s a list of seven foods that are not only great for your overall health but are also surprisingly good for your teeth.
Wild Salmon
Calcium is good for the health of your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, your body cannot take in calcium effectively without sufficient vitamin D. You can improve calcium absorption in your body by eating fatty fish such as wild salmon. Wild salmon is rich in vitamin D and will help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Dark Chocolate
Cacao compound CBH is useful in hardening the tooth enamel, making your teeth less vulnerable to cavities and sensitivity. You can get this beneficial compound from dark chocolate. It’s advisable to choose dark chocolate with at least 75% of cacao content for the best results. Also, ensure the chocolate contains not more than 8 grams of sugar per serving.
Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the most beneficial dairy products for your dental health. It is rich in probiotics, which can play a significant role in improving your overall oral health. These probiotics are effective in neutralizing bad breath and fighting against cavities. Yogurt is also loaded with calcium, which is effective in strengthening teeth.
Oranges
You may think oranges are not healthy for your teeth, thanks to the high acidic content. Acid is notorious for eroding the teeth enamel. However, oranges are rich in vitamin C, which is effective in strengthening blood vessels and connective tissues.
This vitamin also minimizes inflammation, averting the progression of gum disease. To prevent the detrimental effects of the acid in oranges, avoid brushing your teeth immediately after eating the fruit. Simply drink a glass of sparkling water and then brush your teeth after about 30 minutes.
Garlic
Garlic is loaded with antibacterial properties. With its high allicin content, garlic is effective in preventing the activity of various bacteria, which are known to create an imbalance in the oral environment. You should add some chopped garlic to stir-fry dishes, which can help maintain a good balance of bacteria in your mouth.
You can also add raw garlic to your salads, and it will deliver the same results. Don’t use too much garlic as it can cause bad breath.
Butter
Butter is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K2, all of which are great for your oral health. It is also loaded with calcium and conjugated linoleic acid. This acid is excellent for boosting the immune system and helps to prevent dental diseases.
You can add butter to virtually any meal. It is advisable, however, to limit your butter intake as it has a high-fat content.
Almonds
Almonds are rich in calcium and protein, both of which are effective in strengthening your teeth. They are also low in sugar. You can consume almonds as a snack or add them to any of your meals.
There you are. These foods can help you uphold great dental health and prevent various oral health issues.