Foods That Can Help to Prevent Tooth Decay

Obviously, the food and drinks we consume will have a huge impact not only on our overall health, but on our oral health as well. The things we eat interact with the natural bacteria and plaque in our mouths. This means that foods high in carbs, starch, or sugar will form harmful acids that can eat away at the enamel, making the teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay and dental cavities. Because of this, we recommend eating foods that are good for your teeth.

Foods That Can Protect Oral Health

Below are a few things you should be eating to keep your teeth (and body) healthy:

• Fiber – Foods rich in fiber will help to increase saliva production. This is important because saliva helps to wash away harmful acids and food debris in the mouth. The foods most rich in fiber are vegetables, especially leafy greens, and fruits.
• Calcium – Calcium-rich foods are full of nutrients like vitamin D and phosphates, which can help to strengthen the enamel of the teeth and protect the teeth from harmful acids.
• Malic Acid – Malic acid helps to protect oral health and has also been shown to help whiten teeth! You’ll find malic acid in most fruits and veggies.
• Green Tea – Tea, but especially green tea contains antimicrobials. Antimicrobials will help keep bacteria at bay, and can reduce the risk of gum disease, inflammation, and tooth decay.

Please keep in mind that you still need to be eating a well-balanced diet. Consuming only the above foods will not provide you with adequate nutrition.

Here at Coastal Periodontics, we want our patients to have long and healthy lives! For more tips on keeping your gums and teeth healthy, please contact our Portsmouth, New Hampshire periodontics office today.