A healthy diet for healthy teeth

Maintaining strong and healthy teeth isn’t just about how well you clean them each day. A healthy diet is just as important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. We all know just how much damage sugary foods have on our teeth. In fact, when sugars and starches come in contact with the plaque on your teeth, they create acids that can destroy your tooth enamel for as long as 20 minutes after you’ve finished eating.

Tooth enamel is the toughest tissue in the human body so here are four of the best foods to keep your tooth enamel strong.

1. Chocolate

You’d be surprised to learn that chocolate is at the top of our list. Although we recommend you stay away from milk chocolate, which is sweetened, dark chocolate (70% cacao) is considered a superfood for healthy teeth. That’s because it contains a compound known as CBH which actually hardens the tooth enamel. So if you ever want to replace your sugary snacks with a healthier alternative, dark chocolate is the way to go.

2. High-fibre fruits and vegies

There’s no doubt that fruits and vegetables are great for maintaining a healthy diet, and it’s no different for maintaining your oral health. High-fibre vegetables such as beans, peas, spinach and other leafy greens actually help clean your teeth and gums. They keep saliva flowing, which is your body’s natural defence against tooth decay. Not only does saliva rinse your teeth, it neutralises acids, which protects your tooth enamel from weakening. The same goes for fruits such as apples and pears.

3. Cheese, milk and yogurt.

High-calcium foods are known to strengthen and restore minerals in your teeth, which is especially important for growing children. Calcium also plays a big role in strengthening your bones, which includes the jaw bones that hold your teeth – remember that dentistry isn’t just about teeth, but about the whole mouth! Low-fat dairy products are also filled with calcium, so skim milk and low-fat yogurt are great for your teeth, as well.

4. Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and rainbow trout, are high in omega-3 and vitamin D, which helps absorb calcium and protect your teeth from tooth decay.

Golden Square Dental is your trusted dentist in Bendigo and we place a strong emphasis on preventative care. For more advice on how to maintain your dental health, call us today on (03) 5443 0063 or book an appointment here.