Teeth and gums. They help us in so many ways from giving us a great smile to helping us break down our meals and protects our mouth from bacteria and disease! We know we must take care of them daily by brushing, using a fluoride mouthwash, and flossing. But did you know the food you eat can also keep your teeth and gums healthy?!
Nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and calcium-rich foods are great for the best oral health.
Some examples of foods you can try to support your family’s oral health are:
- Vitamin C rich foods: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli and spinach. These foods are great to support your gum health!
- Calcium rich foods: Low-fat and fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese, dark green leafy vegetables, fortified soy drinks, and tofu.
- Phosphorus rich foods: Eggs, fish (click here to see how super fish are), lean meat, dairy, nuts, and beans.
- Fruits and Vegetables: They have water and fiber in them. This helps reduce the level of nutrients that are available to bacteria and helps clean the teeth when breaking the food down.
- Fluoridated water: Most tap water contains fluoride. However, bottled water may not depending on the source. Fluoride is important because it helps harden teeth and prevent cavities.
Calcium and phosphorus are really great for children since these nutrients help with how their teeth and gums develop while they grow!
All of the foods that were mentioned are great for gum health, especially vitamin C rich foods!
Sugary treats can promote cavities. Try to snack on healthier options to protect your teeth. For infants, avoid pacifying them with a liquid that contains sugar like formula, milk, or juice since that can also contribute to tooth decay. Instead, you can make sure they finish the bottle before going to bed and begin gentle brushing of the teeth daily as soon as teeth appear.
You know that developing healthy habits like brushing and flossing everyday are crucial for oral health. Now you can supplement those healthy habits with foods you eat to take care of those pearly whites so you can smile every day!
