A healthy smile starts with healthy habits, and that includes a nutritious diet. Like the rest of your body, your teeth and gums need certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and strong. Here are some of our Sunshine Dental team’s favourite foods that help contribute to good oral health between teeth cleanings.
Raw Fruits & Vegetables
When you bite into crisp fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, carrots, and celery, you’re not just satisfying your taste buds—you’re giving your mouth a natural cleaning.
Hard, fibrous fruits and veggies help clean your teeth and increase salivation production. Saliva gently removes food particles and plaque buildup, which can harbour harmful bacteria that contribute to cavities and gum disease.
Opt for options lower in sugar, such as crisp apples or raw carrots, to help reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient for gum health. Vitamin C helps keep gums strong and resistant to infection. These greens also contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help fight off bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
Add a side of sauteed spinach to your next meal, or blend some kale into your morning smoothie.
Cheese, Yogurt, & Dairy
Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk are rich in calcium and phosphates, which help strengthen tooth enamel. Cheese can also increase saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize harmful acids in the mouth.
Yogurt, particularly plain yogurt with live and active cultures, delivers a double dose of benefits. The calcium supports strong teeth and its supporting structures, while the probiotics help create a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth.
Choose a cheese stick or a dollop of plain yogurt for a fulfilling snack that helps protect your teeth.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to reduced inflammation throughout the body, including in the gums.
Gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis, can be a precursor to more serious gum disease. By incorporating fatty fish into your diet a few times a week, you can help your body fight inflammation and maintain your gum health.
Fire up the grill for some salmon, or whip up a tuna salad for lunch.
Nuts
Almonds, cashews, and even peanuts offer several benefits for oral health and are a fantastic source of calcium, phosphorus, and protein. Calcium and phosphorus can strengthen tooth enamel, while protein helps support healthy gums. Some nuts, like cashews, can also stimulate saliva production.
However, nuts can be quite crunchy. While the act of chewing can be beneficial, be sure to choose nuts that are whole or lightly chopped to avoid putting excessive pressure on your teeth.
Next time you’re looking for a satisfying snack, consider reaching for a handful of mixed nuts.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are packed with fibre and help stimulate saliva production. This helps to neutralize harmful acids and sugars in the mouth that can lead to tooth decay. Some great options for whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat bread.
Green Tea
Green tea can help support oral health by reducing inflammation and preventing bacteria from sticking to teeth. It contains antioxidants that can also help fight against plaque buildup and gum disease.
Water
Water is essential for overall health, but it also plays an important role in oral health. Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria and keeps the mouth hydrated, preventing dry mouth.
Next time you reach for a beverage, remember that water is the ultimate choice for a healthy smile and a happy mouth. It’s naturally calorie-free and sugar-free.
Brush Up on Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
While these delicious foods can contribute to a healthier smile overall, a well-rounded oral health routine is essential.
Sunshine Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. For added benefits, you can also rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash. We can recommend a type for your specific needs.
Regular dental checkups are also crucial. Our team can provide professional cleaning, assess your overall oral health, and offer personalized guidance on flossing, mouthwash use, and other aspects of your at-home routine.
