Everyone is familiar with the basics of good oral hygiene; brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist is something that most people do on a regular basis. What lots of people don't realize is that eating certain foods can help guarantee the health of their mouths.
If you care about oral health, then consider adding more of these foods to your diet:
Cheese
Cheese is a low sugar snack that is high in calcium; cheese also contains a protein called casein that helps fortify and strengthen teeth. Casein is so good for your teeth that dentists often prescribe a paste made of it to their patients who are prone to cavities.
Sugar-Free Gum
Generally, artificial sweeteners aren't considered the healthiest things in the world. But, when it comes to dental health, Xylitol can help prevent the bacteria in plaque from metabolizing sugar. Chewing on gum that contains Xylitol helps stop plaque buildup; the act of chewing also helps mechanically remove plaque.
Celery
Raw and fresh celery is very fibrous; when a person chews on celery, their mouth produces an abundance of saliva. This saliva helps clean the mouth and prevents plaque buildup. When celery is broken down in the mouth, its fibers act as natural tooth cleaner.
Water
According to the Gay Charlotte Dentist association, tap water is very good for a person's teeth. All water from the tap contains fluoride; this mineral has been proven to prevent tooth decay by reversing the damage that's caused by acids.
If these acids aren't neutralized, they strip away your tooth enamel and suck the minerals out of your teeth. If you have the chance, try to drink a couple of glasses of tap water daily.
Pears
Much like vegetables, fruits contain fiber that stimulates a person's saliva production. Pears are a great choice for dental health; they have been found to neutralize acids in the mouth better than other fruits. Always try to stick with fresh fruit; dried fruit is sticky and sugary. It just isn't good for your teeth.
Yogurt
Like cheese, yogurt is a great source of casein; it also contains calcium and phosphates that help your tooth enamel. Try to stick with yogurt that doesn't contain added sugar or corn syrup.
Changing your diet can drastically improve the health of your mouth; if you avoid sugar, starches and sticky foods while adding healthy foods into your lifestyle, then your dental health will improve greatly. Just a few simple changes can completely change your dental health.