It’s no surprise that sugary foods like soda, candy, and fruit juice can contribute significantly to tooth decay. Not only are these foods bad for your overall health, but they are also detrimental to the health of your teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), your oral health is the first area to decline when your diet lacks adequate nutrition.
Dr. Bailey of North River Dental Care has compiled this helpful list of foods that are in fact good for your teeth and your overall oral health! These foods are not only part of a great well-rounded diet, but they can also help reduce your risk of cavities as well as give you a good boost of calcium.
Yogurt
Yogurt is high in calcium and protein, and both of these can strengthen your enamel and your teeth. The probiotics in yogurt are good for gums as they overrun the bad bacteria, which can cause cavities and gum disease. However, be sure to choose a yogurt that is not full of sugar. Otherwise, the good benefits will outweigh the bad for your oral health.
Many yogurts have added sugar, and this will be counterproductive to the health of your teeth. While yogurt naturally has sugar in it, you should choose a variety that is similar to a plain, unflavored yogurt, or even a Greek yogurt. In fact, many Greek yogurts have the highest levels of probiotics. You can sweeten your yogurt in a healthful way by adding fresh berries.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are making a splash in the health foods world today. In almost every grocery store, you can now easily find kale, collard greens, and rainbow chard. The heyday of only having iceberg lettuce has passed, as more people learn about the wonderful nutritional value of other leafy greens.
Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are high in calcium which can build up your enamel, the protective coating on your teeth. They also contain a good amount of folic acid; leafy greens are low in calories while containing a high amount of vitamins and minerals, which makes this food not only good for your oral health, but also good for your overall health.
Almonds
Almonds are a good source of calcium and protein. Almonds can easily get stuck between your teeth, so be sure to floss well after eating a healthy handful of these nuts.
Healthy Body, Healthy Mouth
The helpful staff at North River Dental Care is here to help you maintain and achieve great oral health! Schedule your appointment with us and get your teeth in excellent shape.
