Although teeth and gum health is primarily influenced by how well we look after our teeth, our diet influences our oral health, too. I’m sure your dentist has told you to reduce or eliminate sugary foods, to avoid decay and a build-up of plaque since back when you had baby teeth. But, did you know that some foods will benefit our oral health?

Leafy greens

Leafy greens are among some of the healthiest foods to stock in your kitchen, regardless. Yet, they provide great benefits for your teeth. They are rich in vitamins, folic acid, and calcium. All of which, your teeth and gums will appreciate. The best leafy greens include kale, spinach, watercress, and chard. These can be delicious with any meal and are low in calories, which is good for your overall health. 

Water

Water is essential for any diet and offers endless health benefits. Drinking water often washes away food particles and keeps your saliva levels high. Salvia helps to protect your mouth’s best defense against decay, which is essential to avoid for the good health of your teeth and gums. 

Black and green tea

Black and green tea is abundant in polyphenols, and polyphenols kill bacteria. So, black and green tea will kill bacteria in the mouth, which will reduce the risk of decay. To make sure it does not affect your teeth, ensure to drink sugar-free tea. Sorry, southerns.

Strawberries

Although many fruits are high in sugar, strawberries offer many benefits for the teeth, as they are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and malic acid. The malic acid in particular is useful for enamel.

Garlic

Garlic contains strong antimicrobial properties thanks to its high allicin content. Allicin can help fight tooth decay. Tooth decay can lead to diseases, so a diet rich in garlic may help reduce the risk of tooth and gum diseases. Garlic may not do your breath any favors, but it will certainly help your teeth. Just get your date to eat garlic, too, and you’ll be all good.

Avocados

Avocados are full of prebiotics, which are typically known for good gut health. Prebiotics are also useful for promoting good hygiene in the mouth. They are also full of essential vitamins and minerals, which are key for strong teeth. 

Asparagus

Asparagus is rich in fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, which can have a direct impact on the health of your teeth. Your oral health is in line with your gut microbiome, which comes from a happy and healthy digestive system. 

Apples

By replacing sugary treats with apples, you can strengthen your teeth. These provide hydration as well as fiber. Fiber is essential for saliva production, which helps reduce tooth decay and the risk of gum disease. 

Calcium-rich foods

Calcium strengthens your bones. Teeth are bones, so calcium-rich foods will strengthen your teeth. There’s more, though. Calcium is a building block for enamel - the protective layer on your teeth. Calcium-rich foods include milk, yogurt, cheese, almonds, tofu, and seafood. 

If you do worry your teeth are in bad health and want to improve them alongside improving your diet choices then Dr. Randy Johnson’s Center for Contemporary Dentistry can help.