Just about everyone knows what not to eat in order to avoid dental problems. Candy, cakes, cookies, soda, potato chips and the like are loaded with sugars and starches that increase the production of acids in your mouth. Eventually, these can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. But are there foods that you should be eating to improve your oral health? You bet! Your dentist in Colorado Springs, Dr. Anderson, would like to offer a few suggestions on what to include in your diet, so you and your teeth will be healthy.
Healthy Picks for Your Smile
Water. You know it’s important to stay hydrated. That goes for your mouth as well. Water is nature’s cleanser. When you drink water, you help wash away particles of food and excess bacteria in your mouth. Water also helps increase the production of saliva. And don’t be afraid to drink tap water every now and then. The fluoride in tap water can help strengthen tooth enamel.
Apples. Eat an apple a day for overall health and oral health. Yes, apples do contain sugar, but they also are high in fiber and water content. Eating an apple produces saliva and the crunchy, fibrous texture stimulates your gums and scrubs your teeth. If you can’t brush after every meal, then Colorado Springs best dentist Dr. Anderson recommends eating an apple instead.
Dairy Products. It’s common knowledge that the calcium and protein in dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt helps build strong bones and teeth. In addition, research shows that the pH in your mouth increases when you eat cheese, which lowers your risk of tooth decay. Yogurt contains probiotics, which are healthy bacteria. These can be beneficial to the condition of your teeth and gums when probiotics outnumber the bad bacteria that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
Leafy Greens. Kale and spinach are all the rage now and with good reason. They can be prepared so many different ways—in a salad, sautéed, baked, steamed—and they are loaded with vitamins and minerals. There’s calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel, and folic acid, which has been shown to be helpful in fighting gum disease.
Call Your Dentist in Colorado Springs Today
Top Colorado Springs dentist Dr. Anderson would be happy to offer you more advice on how you can eat for oral health. Call Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, today to schedule a checkup.