What foods do dentists recommend for healthy teeth?

It is not surprising that there are foods that are beneficial for your body and some that are unhealthy, causing health problems, including tooth decay. Certain “dental superfoods” can significantly impact your oral health, as food and drink pass through the mouth first. In this blog, Newtown dentists addressed some of the best and worst foods for teeth that you may add and remove from your diet.

Best Food for Teeth 

Foods and drinks that can significantly improve oral health include:

• Calcium-rich products- Yogurts and cheese are ideal for teeth that need extra care. Similarly, milk also contains nutrients and vitamins that help in strengthening bones and teeth.
• Green vegetables: vegetables that are dar in green color are rich in iron and calcium suck as spinach that help rebuild enamel. Other options include kale and collard greens. 
• Almonds: Healthy snacks like almonds are beneficial for teeth due to their calcium and protein content. 
• Salmon: Low-fat and high-protein intake of salmon aids gums in revitalizing and repairing damaged muscle tissue. It also contains vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption.
• Carrots: Raw carrots act as natural toothbrushes, promoting gum health and blood circulation. They also contain keratin and vitamin A, which are essential for repairing tooth enamel.
• Lean meat: Chicken is a good source of protein for teeth and gums, as well as phosphorus for bone production and remodeling.
• Celery, rich in vitamin K and calcium, can help combat gum disease and stimulate saliva production.
• Green and Black Tea: These teas can also help maintain saliva levels without added sugar. They also reduce dental plaque.
• Still Water: Water replenishes saliva and hydrates the body, preventing bacteria buildup in the mouth.

Worst Food for Teeth

The following foods can cause common tooth health risks such as:

• Soda: Acidic sodas can harm tooth enamel due to high sugar content. Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after drinking soda. Acidic drinks to avoid include regular and diet soda, beer/wine/spirits, carbonated drinks, fruit juices, and lemonade.
• High-sugar foods: Cake, candy, and sweets can cause bad bacteria to feed off sugars, leading to cavities and bad breath. The American Dental Association recommends a maximum of 6 teaspoons of sugar intake.
• Citrus Fruit: Citrus fruits and juices, rich in vitamin C and nutrients, can erode tooth enamel. Orange juice, fortified with teeth-friendly calcium and vitamin D, is less acidic and beneficial for teeth.
• Chewy Candy: Extra-chewy candies like taffy, caramels, or Jujyfruits stick to teeth for a long time, allowing bacteria to feast on the sugar. This leads to tooth decay and cavities. Also, hard candies dissolve slowly and saturate the mouth, giving bacteria more time to produce harmful acid. They can even chip teeth if bitten wrong.
• Pickles: Regular consumption of vinegar or pickles is a risk factor for tooth erosion. Though snacks on pickles aren’t likely to affect dental health.
• Sports Drinks: Sports drinks and energy drinks are also acidic and potentially more damaging to teeth. 
• Carbohydrates: Refined carbohydrates found in saltines and crackers convert to sugar quickly, providing fodder for cavity-forming bacteria. However, consuming crackers in moderation is unlikely to cause long-term problems. Similarly, coffee can stain teeth over time, resulting in unsightly discolouration.

How to Prevent Cavities – Newton Dental Advice 

As recommended by Dr. Arti Kaul, “To maintain good teeth health, brush and floss twice daily, avoid citrus fruits, sticky candies, and soda, consume high-fiber foods, sugar-free gum, and water”. 

If you have any questions or concerns, consult our dentist or healthcare provider. Newtown Dentists offers skilled, board-certified dentistry for all ages, using advanced technology like the SoproLIFE camera and CariScreen meter for early cavity detection. If you’re interested in learning more, reach out to Newtown Dentistry.