Everyday Foods that Protect, Strengthen Teeth

More people are beginning to understand the fact that proper dental health care goes beyond flossing and brushing. This is why there has been a surge in the search for therapies and remedies that can enhance dental health.

The furor in the niche over the last few years has led to the introduction of many remedies: some effective, others duds.  In the midst of it all, many people are ignoring simple, under-hyped remedies such as everyday foods.

This piece looks at six powerful everyday foods you should add to your diet today to enhance dental health.

Seeds and Nuts

As great sources of plant-based protein, nuts and seeds are rich in many micronutrients that are important for dental health. These include: calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and phosphorous. Calcium is important for strong teeth and is vital for tooth remineralization.  Feast on almonds and unhulled sesame seed for the highest percentages of dietary calcium.

Tea

If you don’t gulp one or more cups of green tea every day, it may be time for you to re-evaluate your choices. Green tea contains complex compounds known as “catechins” that fight inflammation and disrupt the replication of bacteria in the mouth.  Unlike other remedies like oil pulling, the effect of green tea on dental health is backed by many studies.

Low Acid food (Apple, Celery)

Water-rich fruits and vegetables enhance saliva production which keeps oral bacteria in check. As high-fiber foods, they enact a scrubbing mechanism that cleanses the teeth during the process of consumption. Chewing foods such as apples is great for fighting dental plaque as the mechanism is quickly nipped in the bud.

Kiwis and Berries

“Vitamin C helps prevent the breakdown of collagen” says Dr. Neil Oza at Advanced Dental Concept This makes it important in the dental health equation.  Presence of collagen protects you from periodontal disease as a result of tender gums. Strawberries and Kiwis have high concentrations of vitamin C.  “The astringent nature of these fruits also makes them important in the fight against tooth discoloration as a result of beverage consumption”.

Onions

You may not like post raw onion breath but the sulphuric compounds in it make them powerful in terms of dental health. Bacteria in the mouth that can cause cavities and periodontal disease can be eradicated by just chewing some raw onions. It may be unrealistic for you to grab a bulb of onion and tuck into it straight away, but you can be liberal with raw onion slices over your salads and sandwiches.

Shiitake

These mushrooms have a natural sugar that can help prevent gingivitis known as lentinan. Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of bacterial biofilm.  Patients have red gums and swellings and in some cases, bleeding. Lenitan is so effective that it can selectively kill bacteria responsible for dental cavities without harming non-harmful bacteria.

These are top foods you should add to your diet today for improved dental health. Already enjoy eating these superfoods? You can now put conscientious efforts into their consumption!