Just last week, we discussed several foods and beverages that are damaging to your teeth. We’d like to switch it up for this week’s discussion and focus on a selection of foods that can actually be beneficial. More specifically, we’re going to focus on a few fruits and vegetables to add to your diet that will not only improve your overall health, but also your dental health. If you don’t already have some of these tucked away in your fridge, it’s time to add them to your grocery list and pick some up as soon as you can.
Citrus Fruits
Yes, we know. In last week’s post, we ended our discussion by explaining that citrus fruits could be damaging to your teeth because they’re highly acidic in nature. While that is true, citrus fruits are also high in vitamin C, which is critical for the health of your gums. We suggest oranges, pineapples, and tomatoes for the best results. The trick is to eat these in moderation and be sure to drink plenty of water to help wash away any acid that stays behind. By doing so, you can improve your dental health rather than harm it.
Fruits Rich in Fiber
Many people don’t realize that when you eat fruits that are high in fiber, your saliva production increases. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can damage your teeth and gums, in addition to reducing your mouth’s acid level and preventing dry mouth. The prevention of dry mouth can be especially important, as it can make your teeth more vulnerable to decay. And as an added bonus, chewing fiber-rich fruits massages your gums, promoting their health as well. Popular fruits in this category include apples, oranges, pears, and watermelon. So add a few to your diet and enjoy the benefits.
Vegetables That Promote Strong Teeth
Your body uses beta carotene to make vitamin A, which helps to build strong teeth and bones. This is why eating hard and fibrous vegetables like carrots and celery can be beneficial to your body and dental health. The water content of these vegetables is also quite useful, as it keeps your teeth and gums clean by washing away food debris and bacteria that could otherwise be damaging. And, like fruits rich in fiber, as mentioned above, hard and fibrous vegetables will also massage your gums as you chew. If you’re not a big vegetable fan, we suggest that you grin and bear it, because you don’t want to pass these up.
Onions
They’re not just for making people cry anymore! Indeed, onions are fantastic for your oral health thanks to the antibacterial sulfur compounds contained within them. These compounds kill bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease. While cooked onions are helpful, this vegetable is at its most potent when eaten fresh and uncooked. We don’t suggest you eat one as if it’s an apple like George Costanza did, but if you choose to eat an onion in its healthiest form, be sure to brush your teeth or at least use mouthwash afterwards. Your friends and loved ones will thank you for it!
Eating the rights kinds of foods and avoiding the wrong kinds of foods is an essential part of ensuring your dental and oral health. Eating the fruits and vegetables listed above will help you stay on your path toward strong teeth and gums, but you also need a reputable dentist in your back pocket.
Would you like more dental tips to help you improve your oral health? Are you in need of a check-up or some assistance on how best to care for your teeth and gums? Give Dr. Bruce McArthur a call today and we’ll set you up with an appointment right away!