We all want to grab for that candy bar or ice cream cone from time to time. The sugary delight is addictive, but while it’s not bad to consume every once in a while, it can become a problem for not only your stomach and weight—it can cause some serious problems for your teeth.
When we select food at the supermarket or at a restaurant we typically concerned with calorie count along with other nutritional information. The last thing we think about is how this food might affect our teeth. Strange thought, I know, but it’s one more we ought to consider.
So, have you considered which foods might be healthy for your teeth and your weight? If not, time to consider.
1. Milk and Dairy
Perfect, ice cream is dairy, so it’s good for your teeth right? Wrong. When we make mention of dairy, we’re considering milk, yogurt, cheese and other products with low sugar contents. Milk is a great enforcer and protector of tooth enamel. Milk provides much needed calcium and phosphorus that teeth need to remineralize. That means minerals are added back to your teeth after they’ve been removed by acid-heavy foods and drinks, which is a plus for your tooth health!
2. Firm/Crunchy Fruits
The term “firm/crunchy” is interesting, but what we’re referring to here are fruits like apples and pears. These foods are high in water content, which dilutes the amount of natural sugar they have in them. They also cause saliva production, which protects against tooth decay, acidic buildup and food particles getting stuck within your teeth. Some term an apple as “nature’s toothbrush.”
Be careful with acidic fruits, such as lemons, pineapples and other citrus, as these contain greater amounts of acid. If you prefer citrus fruit, eat them with other foods so acid is not left on your teeth.
3. Fish
Yes, fish is actually good for your oral health. Particularly, salmon and Atlantic mackerel contain healthy amounts of vitamin D, which is great for oral health because it assists the body in absorbing and using calcium. So, if you consume fish and dairy together, you’re giving your teeth a serious boost of health.
4. Water
Wait, water isn’t a food! True, it’s liquid, but it’s one we can’t help but emphasize whenever we can. Water does so much good for the body. It boosts saliva production, which keeps teeth healthy and from decay. Water washes away food debris in your teeth. And water keeps you away from all those sugary-drink alternatives. A healthy mouth is one filled with life’s best fluid—water.
Now you know what foods to focus on in your diet. It’s up to you to take control of what you eat to benefit the health of your teeth. We’re here to assist in your oral health as well.
If you have any other questions about food or drink regarding your oral health, please don’t hesitate to contact our Birmingham dental office. We enjoy teaching and educating all of our patients about great dental practices.
Not one of our patients? Not a problem. You can get started today at Valleydale Dental in Birmingham. Call our office at 205.991.7797 or fill out the contact form on the right, and we’ll be in touch!
