We have compiled a list of ten drinks and foods that might surprise you with their oral health benefits as part of National Smile Month. Continue reading to see if you recognize any listed options.
10 Products for Your Oral Health Benefits
1. Milk, Cheeses, And Yogurt
You can strengthen your teeth and bones with the calcium contained in any type of dairy product.
In addition to being soft for delicate teeth, cheeses and yogurts are a great option because they have a high mineral and vitamin content. Since it contains a similar level of vitamins and nutrients, milk is also good for your teeth.
2. Spinach And Other Dark Green Vegetables
In addition to being highly beneficial to your overall health, any dark green vegetable is great for your teeth. Spinach is a great addition to any meal as it has high calcium content that plays an essential role in rebuilding enamel and is rich in iron.
Collard greens and kale are among the other options included in this group.
3. Almonds And Other Healthy Snacks
You can improve various dental issues with the help of healthy snacks like almonds.
On top of having low sugar content, these snacks are great for oral health because they are a good source of protein and calcium. In addition to damaging enamel, sugar can harm teeth by raising acidity in the oral cavity.
4. Black Tea And Green Tea
You can improve your dental health by drinking cups of black and green tea. These beverages can work wonders in aiding saliva production and lowering acidity levels without introducing any sugar – provided that you drink it without adding sugar. Furthermore, it can assist with reducing cavities and washing away dental plaque – which is good for everyone’s oral health. As a natural fluoride source, tea also works to reinforce enamel.
5. Carrots
Eating raw carrots comes with a long list of health benefits. While you still need to properly brush your teeth, the crunchy texture associated with carrots acts as a natural toothbrush, helping clean your teeth as well. They can also boost your gums’ health and blood circulation as the chewing action massages them. This vegetable also contains vitamin A and Keratin, which help with tooth enamel repair.
6. Salmon
Thanks to its high protein content and low-fat nature, salmon has been seen as a healthy food for many years. Since it plays an essential role in repairing damaged tissue, including muscles, around the body, protein can help revitalize gums. It also boosts the health of bones and teeth thanks to its high vitamin D content, which enhances calcium absorption.
7. Still Water
On top of hydrating your body, water is also considered the best drink for your teeth. You can make it easier for your mouth to return to its normal pH level and replenish saliva after the accumulation of bacteria over the day. Unlike soft drinks, water does not come with any risk of damaging your teeth as it is not acidic in nature.
8. Lean Meat
As a rich protein source, lean meat, like chicken, is great for oral health.
Thanks to its high phosphorous content, lean meat also plays a role in bone remodeling and production. If you consume a high amount of vitamin D and calcium in your diet without adding in some phosphorous, you could end up having teeth that are very susceptible to chipping.
9. Apples
While working to a lesser extent, depending on the variety, apples can also work as a natural toothbrush. On top of keeping the doctor away, they can do the same for dentists because they have low acidity levels, unlike oranges.
By raising acidity levels in your oral cavity, healthy fruits like oranges can have a negative effect on your teeth. This can cause wearing of the enamel, over time; however, hydrating with water frequently can help counter this effect.
10. Celery
To an extent, this food can act like a natural toothbrush, just like carrots. Celery contains high calcium and vitamin K content. The transportation of calcium around the body is aided by vitamin K. While it is important to consult your dentist regarding what you should use, celery can aid in increasing the production of saliva and fighting gum disease.