The Best Foods for Your Teeth

1. Cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products

Cheese, milk, yogurt, and other dairy products are rich in calcium and protein which are vital for strong, healthy teeth. Cheese has also been shown to increase saliva production, which means that acid and sugars are being washed away from your teeth. Yogurt also contains probiotics. Probiotics have been shown to reduce caries and gum disease, because the good bacteria will take up the room that the bad bacteria usually inhabit. However, select your dairy wisely- chocolate milk and ice cream are not the same as cheese and yogurt!

2. Leafy greens  

Leafy greens, like spinach and kale, are known to be wonderful for your overall health, but are also great for your teeth. They are high in vitamins and minerals, like calcium and folic acid. Calcium strengthens your teeth, while folic acid has been shown to reduce the chance of periodontal disease, especially in pregnant women. 

3. Fiber-rich fruits 

Fruits, like apples, are high in fiber and they help stimulate saliva production. Apples are also a great sweet treat to reach for instead of sugar. Eating an apple has also been shown to stimulate the gums, a motion similar to brushing your teeth. 

4. Fiber-rich vegetables  

Vegetables high in fiber also stimulate saliva production. Two great vegetables high in fiber are celery and carrots. These two vegetables are also high in vitamin A, which help to strengthen your gums. 

5. Almonds  

 

Almonds are a great snack to swap out for sugary treats, crackers, and chips. They are low in sugar, but high in calcium and protein. This helps to strengthen your teeth, and they keep you from snacking on unhealthy foods.

Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/nutrition-and-oral-health/healthy-foods-list-seven-best-foods-for-your-teeth-0214

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