We need our teeth to consume food, but we rarely think about what the food we’re consuming does to our teeth. So long as we brush them, it doesn’t make a difference, right?
Just like any body part, your teeth have specific nutritional needs. Feed them right, and you’ll be able to wear those pearly whites long into your golden years.
Get Plenty of Calcium
This essential ingredient for bones is also a must-have for teeth. Calcium helps make your teeth stronger, and significantly lowers your risk of tooth loss. You can get calcium from a variety of sources. Milk and dairy products are the best-known source, but you can also find it in leafy green vegetables like broccoli and cabbage, along with nuts, soy beans, and tofu.
An added benefit is that milk and cheese raise the pH level in your mouth, resulting in fewer cavity-causing acids. This means that a glass of milk strengthens teeth and reduces cavities at the same time!
Boost Your Vitamin C Intake
Vitamin C is important for healthy gums, and something you should seek out daily. While citrus fruits are the best-known source of vitamin C, the sugar and citric acid in these fruits are bad for your enamel. Instead, seek alternatives in healthy vegetables like broccoli (also a source of calcium), bell peppers, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
Make Water Your Default Drink
You may be thirsty on a warm afternoon, but consider passing over that soda or lemonade for a cold glass of water instead. Not only does it reduce the amount of sugar and acid your teeth are exposed to, water helps rinse away food debris and cavity-causing bacteria.
Chew More Gum, But Only the Right Kind
Put down the fruity bubble gum – that’s not the gum you’re looking for. Instead, pick up a pack of gum that boasts xylitol as an ingredient. Xylitol serves as a sweetener, allowing you to forgo the sugar. More importantly, xylitol breaks down differently than regular sugar, and studies have shown that it actually helps to prevent tooth decay.
While you strive to keep your teeth healthy on a daily basis, it’s also important to remember your regular six-month check-ups. A good at-home care routine won’t do you any good if you have dental problems that aren’t being addressed!
Ireland Park Dentistry provides quality dental services to the South Bend community. To learn more about good health care, contact our office today.