Many of us already know that certain foods, especially those with a lot of sugar and acid, are harmful for oral health. But did you know that there are actually some foods and drinks that are good for your smile? Keep reading to learn more from our Glendale dentists…
Dairy
A number of dairy products are beneficial because they contain smile-boosting calcium and casein. Additionally, milk works to neutralize oral acids, which soften and weaken dental enamel.
Crunchy Vegetables
Veggies like carrots and celery contain a lot of water, and therefore help to refresh your mouth. Plus, chewing on crunchy and water-rich vegetables manually dislodges bacterial plaque and dental debris.
Garlic
While garlic may make your breath odorous, that doesn’t mean that it is unhealthy for your smile. In fact, garlic contains something called “allicin,” which is antimicrobial. Consuming garlic will help you keep the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease in check.
Leafy Greens
Greens, like kale and spinach, are good for overall well-being as well as oral health. That is because these vegetables contain calcium, as well as vitamins and minerals that fortify your smile. And, as with carrots and celery, chomping on leafy greens clears away plaque and jump-starts saliva production.
Apples
When you chew on crunchy fruits like apples you stimulate saliva production in your mouth. And the fibrous meat of the apple refreshes your enamel and gently cleans your gum tissue. Keep in mind, however, that these types of fruits are acidic, so it’s a good idea to gently rinse your smile with water after you have finished your snack.
Try incorporating some of these foods into your daily routine in order to support a healthy and attractive smile. And please feel free to reach out to our Glendale dentists if you’d like more information about how your diet affects oral health!