There are many foods that are beneficial for your oral health. In this blog post, we highlight some foods that are good for your teeth and gums!
- Apples
- Carrots
- Cheese
- Sugar-Free Gum
Apples contain vitamin C, a nutrient your body needs to repair cells and tissues, such as your gums! This crunchy fruit also contains fiber, which is important for your gut health, and antioxidants that help reduce your risk of cancer. Plus, biting into and chewing an apple helps clean your teeth.
As you munch on carrot sticks, they clean away some of the plaque and food particles from your teeth. Carrots also contain vitamin A, which keeps your body’s mucus membranes healthy and moist. Vitamin A helps prevent dry mouth and promotes healing throughout your body. Dip carrots and other fresh veggies like celery, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper into hummus for a filling snack or appetizer.
As if you need another reason to love cheese, right? Cheese contains an abundance of healthful nutrients. For example, cheese contains protein (the building block for growth and repair in your body), calcium (which keeps your teeth and bones strong), zinc (which promotes a strong immune system and wound-healing), and vitamin A. Cheese also helps balance the pH in your mouth by reducing the amount of harmful acid that can contribute to decay.
However, limit your consumption of processed cheese, such as Velveeta, Cheese Whiz, and American cheese. These have non-cheese additives, making them only about 50% real cheese and thus less beneficial for your oral health.
Although it’s never a replacement for daily brushing and flossing, sugar-free chewing gum gives your teeth a bit of a scrub. It also encourages the production of saliva, your mouth’s natural rinse. Chew sugar-free gum after meals to help reduce your risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and cavities.
Be sure to avoid gum that contains sugar and stop chewing if you experience any jaw pain.
Comprehensive Oral Healthcare in South Austin, TX
Maintaining a balanced diet is just one aspect of maintaining a healthy smile. We also recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time; flossing every day; drinking plenty of water; avoiding tobacco products; and visiting Southwest Smiles for routine dental cleanings and checkups.
Don’t have your next appointment scheduled? Please call our office or fill out our online contact form to get in touch with our team. We look forward to seeing you soon!