Healthy Foods for Healthy Teeth

Here in Hendricks County, we all know that brushing your teeth and flossing twice a day, as well as seeing Dr. Erickson at Danville Family Dentistry at least once a year, are important for good oral health. But did you know that eating healthy foods are also essential if you want healthy teeth and gums?
The right foods not only nourish the cells in your body, but they also provide your teeth and gums with the nutrients they need, like vitamin C, vitamin D and calcium, to help them stay strong and fend off plaque, gingivitis and periodontal disease.
So, if you want a healthy smile to share with your Hendricks County friends, you should add these healthy foods to your diet.
1.  Dairy products  
Milk, cheese and yogurt contain calcium and vitamin D for strong bones, including your jaw bone. Calcium also safeguards your teeth against gum disease. In addition to calcium, dairy products contain casein and phosphorous which neutralize acids and protect your teeth’s enamel from erosion. Additionally, yogurt is made with good bacteria that may help prevent the buildup of bad bacteria in your mouth.
2.  Fish 
Bacteria in the mouth can cause inflammation that leads to gum disease. Fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are potent anti-inflammatory nutrients. These fatty acids help people become more resistant to inflammation and infection, and subsequently gum disease. Additionally, fatty fish like salmon and Atlantic mackerel are good sources of vitamin D, which helps your body absorb and use calcium to protect your teeth and gums.
3.  Fruits  
The fibrous nature of fresh fruit, like pears, apples, pineapple and oranges, stimulates saliva production that neutralizes the effect of acids on your teeth’s surfaces and washes away bacteria. Kiwi, pineapple, strawberries and oranges also contain vitamin C that promotes the production of collagen, which is needed to maintain the strength of your gums. Vitamin C reduces inflammation, too, which may prevent or slow the development of gingivitis.
4.  Vegetables
Like fresh fruit, fresh veggies, such as carrots and celery, promote saliva production, massage the gums, and naturally clean the teeth. Carrots are full of vitamin A, which helps in the formation of tooth enamel. When you eat broccoli, it creates an acid-resistant film on your teeth that aids in the prevention of enamel erosion. The sulphur compounds found in onions reduce bacteria that cause tooth decay.
So, visit your nearest Hendricks County farmer’s market or grocery store to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies, dairy products and fish to help you maintain good eating habits that promote a healthy smile.
And, while you’re at it, don’t forget to schedule your next dental appointment at Danville Family Dentistry, because we care about the health of your teeth.