A good oral health care routine is only part of the solution when it comes to keeping your mouth healthy. What you eat can affect the health of your teeth and gums too. Here are the 4 foods to eat for healthy teeth.

Foods to eat for healthy teeth: What’s good and what’s not?

You know the advice. Red wine, tea, and coffee stain the teeth. Acidic food and drinks wear away your tooth enamel. Sweet sugary foods can cause decay. However, there are some foods which are actually good for your teeth. These oral health boosting foods promote strong healthy teeth and gums so you’ll spend less time in the dentist’s chair. So what are they?

The 4 foods to eat for healthy teeth

1. Apples

Crunchy apples keep the dentist away. This is because apples have a high water content which stimulates the production of saliva. Saliva is your mouth’s natural protection against cavity-causing bacteria. Apples also have a high fibre content which has a mild astringent effect on teeth. Hello whiter and brighter teeth!

2. Dairy

Dairy foods are high in calcium which is essential for strong teeth. Yoghurt is a great choice for healthy teeth and the bonus is it contains probiotics which increase the number of good bacteria in your body. It’s these good bacteria that fight the bad bacteria which causes gum disease.

3. Leafy Greens

Aside from being full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, leafy greens like kale and spinach also contain calcium to keep teeth strong. Don’t get enough greens? Add them to a smoothie, sprinkle them over a homemade pizza, and pack your side salads with them. A strong healthy smile is worth it!

4. Nuts

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are packed with nutrients and healthy fats. They also take a fair bit of chewing, which means your mouth produces more protective saliva. The healthy omega-3 fatty acids in nuts strengthen teeth and keep gum tissue healthy. One important thing to note, nuts are quite calorie dense and high in fat (albeit the good kind) so eat them in moderation.

As well incorporating these foods to eat for healthy teeth into your diet, remember to maintain a good oral health routine at the same time. Brush twice per day, floss daily, use a good mouthwash, and invest in a good tooth cleaner to clean those hard to reach places in between the teeth.

For more on oral health care and the best products for a healthy smile, check out the rest of our blog.