Everyone knows that the key to good health is to eat right. This is also important when it comes to maintaining good dental health. As a matter of fact, eating right is one of the most important things you can do for your teeth on a daily basis. The quality and consistency of the foods you eat play an integral part in your overall preventive dental health care plan.
While some foods like fruits, vegetables and nuts can help strengthen your immune system and ward off inflammation in your mouth, other foods can help prevent tooth decay and cavities.
For example:
Calcium-fortified liquids such as juice and milk provide calcium and Vitamin D, both of which are vital to good dental health. They reduce the risk of tooth loss and promote healthy bone growth.
In addition to providing calcium, cheese helps reduce plaque that exists on your teeth which causes tartar build up as well as gingivitis. Eating cheese reduces the acids that build up on teeth and helps rebuild tooth enamel immediately.
Crisp fruits and raw vegetables can help you scrape off the plaque that helps to prevent tooth decay and can even help freshen breath. .
The antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables help reduce inflammation and protects gums from bacterial infections as well as cell damage.
Studies suggest that eating fresh cranberries prevent plaque from even forming on your teeth by interrupting the ability of oral bacteria to bond to your teeth.
And folic acid has been cited to promote healthy cell development in the mouth as well as throughout the body.
Of course, avoiding acidic and sugary foods will also go a long way to keeping your mouth in good health.
By eating right, brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dental health professional as recommended, you and your teeth will have a long and fruitful relationship.