We all know good nutrition is important to living a healthy lifestyle, but did you know that besides chewing our food, many foods actually benefit our teeth? Our teeth need nutrients just like the rest of our bones, so including these foods in your diet will keep your smile healthy and bright. Plus: they’re delicious, too!
Cheese
Cheese, like most dairy products, is rich in calcium, which promotes bone health. Our bodies use calcium to help rebuild enamel and strengthen our bones. Since our bodies can’t produce their own calcium — it’s a mineral that we can only get by consuming it — and we lose it quickly, be sure to snack on some cheese to sure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet.
Apples
Eating too many carbohydrates, starches, and sugary foods can erode enamel due to acids they produce in our mouths. To satisfy your sweet tooth instead, pick up an apple. Apples are rich in vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation. Those individuals who suffer from inflamed gums could benefit from having some extra vitamin C in their diets. Other vitamin C rich foods include broccoli, oranges, and green peppers.
Fish
Even if you consumed plenty of calcium every day, your body can’t absorb it without Vitamin D. Consuming foods rich in vitamin D, such as tuna and salmon, helps your body absorb calcium to build those strong teeth and bones. Another excellent source of vitamin D is readily abundant and free: the sun! Taking in plenty of fresh air and sun on your body does wonders for skin, hair, nails, teeth, and more!
Oatmeal
Whole grains such as in some oatmeals help lower the risk of gum disease and they also can improve heart health. Having oatmeal in the morning, as part of a healthy diet, can help keep your gums stay healthy too. Buyer beware though: most pre-packaged flavored packets are loaded with sugar. An excess of sugar will feed oral bacteria that destroy enamel. To keep the level of sugar low, try making your own plain oats and add in some berries. You can also mix it with cinnamon to make it sweeter.
Consuming these tasty, healthy foods can not only improve your dental health, but they’re great for your entire body. Make sure you’re having your teeth examined regularly as part of your dental health routine by keeping in touch with Dr. McCool! Schedule a complimentary consultation online or call 770.450.4407 today!