If your diet is less than ideal, there are so many reasons to make a change. Eating well makes you healthier, increases energy, and just feels good.
It may also boost your smile. And a beautiful smile is so important to how you interact with the world. It is one of the first things people notice when they meet you and is key to presenting a confident demeanor.
Here are five types of foods (okay four foods and one drink) that possess a multitude of benefits for your teeth and gums. Incorporate them into your daily diet, and your smile will shine.
Also important, of course, are regular dental visits. If live in the Laredo, TX area and are due for your twice-yearly cleaning and exam, call Davenport Dental Group at 956-242-6745 (Junction Drive) or 956-517-2695 (Winfield).
Cheese
You may be aware that dairy products work wonders for your smile, due to their high calcium content. Calcium, of course, is a mineral that’s essential for making your teeth strong. Dairy products also contain caseins, a type of protein that offers protection from harmful bacterial acids. Cheese has been shown to be especially beneficial. Chewing it raises the pH level of the mouth, creating a non-hospitable environment for decay-causing microbes.
Nuts
Nutritious nuts are packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals. They make for a filling snack, and because they are low in carbs and sugar, they don’t create residue for bacteria to feed on. So you can be confident that munching on them won’t lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, their crunchy texture is good for boosting the flow of saliva in your mouth, important for rinsing away bacteria and food particles.
Leafy Greens
Kale, swiss chard, spinach, watercress. If you don’t already, work on incorporating these healthful leafy greens into your diet. They are extremely versatile, low in calories, and packed with good things for your oral health. Greens are an excellent source of calcium, making them especially important for people who can’t eat dairy products. They are also rich in folic acid, which has been shown to promote gum health.
Apples
But wait, maybe you’re thinking. Don’t apples contain sugar? Well yes, but that’s not the only part of the story. Apples have a high water content, and their crunchy, fibrous texture massages the gums and increases the production of cleansing saliva in your mouth. Plus they are packed with nutrients. All in all, an apple is a net win for your oral health.
Water
Stop with the soft drinks, juice, and sports drinks. These contain destructive acids and sugars that settle over your teeth and nurture colonies of disease-causing bacteria. Eventually, a tooth filling could be required to repair a cavity. Pure water, on the other hand, is refreshing and helps cleanse your mouth every time you take a swig. Get into the habit of toting a refillable water bottle with you as you go about your day.
So next time you’re craving a bite to eat, keep your oral health in mind. Eventually, it will become second nature. And be sure you’re visiting us at Davenport Dental Group every six months for a cleaning and exam. You may reach us online or call one of our Laredo, TX offices (Junction Drive at 956-242-6745 or Winfield at 956-517-2695).