Posted on: 20 May 2016
When you think of foods that are good for your teeth, what comes to mind? Cheese? Yogurt? Maybe some crunchy celery? While all of these foods are certainly promoters of good dental health, there are plenty of other good things to chomp on when you're trying to keep your smile in top shape. Here's a look at five other foods that are surprisingly good for dental health.
Eggs yolks in particular are high in vitamin D, a nutrient that interacts with calcium in order to build healthy tooth enamel. Many people don't get enough vitamin D, so increasing your intake by including a few more egg yolks in your diet is a good idea. Snack on a hardboiled egg in the afternoon, or have am omelet for breakfast on the weekend.
You might want to ask for an extra scoop of sauerkraut on your Reuben! This fermented cabbage dish is remarkably high is a great source of probiotic bacteria. These healthy bacteria help fight off the bad oral bacteria that lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Kimchi, a Korean dish that's similar to sauerkraut and is also made from fermented cabbage and other veggies, offers similar benefits.
Blueberries have long been honored for their anti-cancer properties, but the antioxidants they contain do more than protect against cancer. They promote healthy gums and teeth by fighting inflammation and protecting against bacterial infection, too. And blueberries are not the only berries that offer these benefits. Blackberries and cranberries are great choices, too. Toss a handful into your smoothie, cereal or oatmeal for a dental health boost.
You've probably heard of scurvy, the deficiency disease that causes your gums to recede and your teeth to fall out when you don't get enough vitamin C. Being even a little deficient in vitamin C can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, since your immune system will be too weak to properly fight off the bacteria that cause it. Bell peppers are an excellent, yet under-rated source of vitamin C. Include them in salads and stir fries. Your gums will thank you.
While drinking a lot of black tea may stain your teeth, the polyphenols in tea are excellent for slowing bacterial growth and therefore reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. To avoid staining, choose green tea over black. Or, you can sip tea through a straw so it bypasses your teeth and is deposited directly on your tongue.
Include more of the foods above in your diet, and your teeth and gums will flourish. To learn more, contact a family dentist like David Semrau, DDS.Share