The Perfect Diet for Healthy Teeth

Your teeth are important. They are displayed prominently when we smile, and we use them to eat the food we need to stay healthy. However, it is worth noting that teeth are sensitive, and we need to take extra precautions to make sure they are not damaged by the things we eat.

There are many things to stay away from when it comes to protecting your oral health. Here are some tips and tricks to help you keep those pearly whites shining!

Foods to Avoid

1. Sugar

There are many foods and drinks that can damage your teeth and poorly impact your overall oral health. The most obvious culprit is sugar. Sugary substances are a fast-track path to getting cavities, so it is best to avoid things like candy, cupcakes, soda, and other sweets when you can.

Even seemingly healthy products like sports drinks can at times have a high sugar content. Always be sure to check the amount of sugar that is present in anything you are planning to eat or drink by checking the ingredient panel on the product’s packaging.

2. Citrus

You will also want to be careful with any acidic products. It is important to include fruit in your diet, but citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, or grapefruit, can be high in acidity. The acid in these fruits can damage your tooth enamel if eaten too frequently. You can moderate the consumption of these fruits in a healthier way by eating them as an additional side alongside the main portion of your meal.

3. Teeth-staining Beverages

Finally, you will also want to moderate your consumption of drinks that can stain your teeth, like coffee and wine. Or, at the very least, drink a lot of water alongside them.

Foods You Should Eat

At this point, you might be wondering what exactly is safe to eat for good oral health. It is best to try and eat a balanced diet that incorporates all five major food groups.

1. Whole Grains

Whole grains, like oatmeal and brown rice, are excellent foods that are good for you and your teeth.

2. Calcium-rich Foods

Calcium-heavy products are also a great way to strengthen your teeth. You can find high amounts of calcium in milk, legumes, leafy greens like kale, and almonds.

3. Healthy Fats

Healthy fats such as the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and avocados also promote oral health.

All of this is not to say that you can’t enjoy a sugary snack every once in a while, but enjoy it in moderation.

Drink Plenty of Water

As far as beverages go, the best one for your teeth is, quite simply, water. Staying hydrated with a healthy amount of water per day is incredibly beneficial to your health in multiple areas. One of these areas, of course, is your oral health. Water will not damage your teeth and can also be useful for chasing down a beverage that is worse for your teeth, like soda. Even if you have a cup of coffee to wake up in the morning, be sure to wash it down with some water!

How to Maintain your Oral Health

Moderating what you eat and drink is crucial to proper oral health care. However, there is much more you will need to do in order to ensure that your teeth stay healthy and clean.

Collins Street Dentist recommends a series of preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of getting a cavity. They advise that you brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It is also important to floss daily, especially before you go to sleep. Finally, use an oral rinse like mouthwash to rinse the bacteria out of your mouth after flossing.

Follow these tips and you can keep your teeth shining for a long time!