Most people are aware that oral hygiene has a significant impact on their oral health, but have you ever stopped to think about how your diet affects your teeth? Diet plays a huge part in oral health and the foods you eat can make the difference between strong, healthy teeth and weak, decayed teeth. Here are the five best foods to eat to keep your teeth healthy:
Yoghurts
Yoghurts are a great option for dessert, as they contain a lot of calcium, a mineral, which is essential for healthy bones, teeth and nails. Yoghurts are tasty and you can choose from a huge range of flavours; try to stick to products that do not contain a large amount of sugar and eat shortly after your main meal, rather than snacking. Adding fruit to yoghurt is a great way of getting your 5 a day in; one popular example is to add blueberries, banana and strawberries to natural Greek yoghurt.
Milk
Milk is the best drink for your teeth because it is high in calcium. Your body uses calcium for many things, including making bone tissue and ensuring that you get your recommended daily intake of calcium will help to keep your teeth, nails and bones strong and healthy. You also need to ensure that you get plenty of vitamin D, as this vitamin enables the body to absorb calcium. Children should drink whole (full-fat) milk and it is particularly important for them to get the RDA, as their bones are still developing and growing.
Raw vegetables and fruit
Chewing and biting down on raw vegetables help to stimulate the gums and vegetables are low in calories and sugar. Raw carrots, celery, apples and pears, peppers and cucumber are great snacking options, as they contain a lot of water, which dilutes sugars and stimulates saliva production, keeping the mouth moist. If you are eating acidic fruits, such as citrus fruits, avoid eating between meals, as this reduces the number of acid attacks on the teeth during the day.
Poultry and meat
Poultry and meat are good for your teeth because they are thought to encourage remineralisation of the tooth enamel; the tooth enamel is the protective outer coating of the teeth. Meat contains calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for remineralisation. If the tooth enamel is strong, there is a much lower risk of decay and damage.
Nuts
Nuts are a healthy snacking option for your teeth because they are low in sugar and they contain calcium and phosphorus, which help to protect the tooth enamel. Avoid choosing sugar-coated nuts or honey-roasted nuts, as well as salted nuts, as eating too much salt can contribute to high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
About Author:
James Dunphy is a passionate healthcare and dentistry writer who is committed to giving the most valuable information to his readership. Currently he is looking to educate people about the importance of braces at
www.braces.org.uk
