We all know good nutrition is important to living a healthy lifestyle, but did you know that our teeth do more with food than just chew it? Our teeth require nutrients to stay healthy and grow — just like the rest of our bones — so adding these foods into your diet will keep your smile healthy and bright. And as an added bonus: they taste delicious too!

Dr. Poorva Parnaik of Dental Creations, a respected dental provider of Medford, NJ, would like to give you some tips about which foods will help your teeth stay strong and healthy.

Apples

Too many carbohydrates, starches, and sugary foods in your diet can cause your tooth enamel to decay due to acids they leave in our mouths. Instead, pick up a crisp, juicy apple to satisfy that “sweet tooth”.  Apples are rich in vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation. Those individuals with inflamed gums can us some extra vitamin C in their diets to help alleviate the symptom. Many other foods are rich in vitamin C, including broccoli, oranges, and green peppers and they’re good for your general health as well.

Cheese

Cheese, like most dairy products, is rich in calcium, which promotes strong and healthy bones. Our bodies need calcium in foods and drinks and vitamins to help rebuild enamel and strengthen our bones since our bodies can’t produce it on their own. We use up our calcium quickly so be sure to snack on some cheese to make sure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet.

Fish

Even if you eat and drink plenty of calcium-rich foods and drinks every day, your body cannot absorb it without Vitamin D. Eating vitamin D-rich foods, such as tuna and salmon, will help your body absorb calcium it needs to build those strong teeth and bones. Another excellent source of vitamin D is easy to get and free: the sun! Getting plenty of fresh air and sun on your body is good for your skin, hair, nails, teeth, and more! Just be sure to wear sunscreen!

Oatmeal

Whole grains such as those found in some oatmeals can improve heart health. Eating oatmeal for breakfast, as part of a healthy diet, can help your gums stay healthy too. However, most pre-packaged artificially-flavored oatmeal packages are full of added sugars and sweeteners. Eating too much sugar feeds the oral bacteria that will cause your precious tooth enamel to decay. To keep the sugar down, try cooking your own plain oats and add in some berries and/or cinnamon for sweetness.  

Consuming these tasty, healthy foods can not only improve your dental health, but they’re great for the overall health of your entire body. Make sure you are having regular dental exams — at least every 6 months — as part of your dental health routine by keeping in touch with Dr. Parnaik of Dental Creations in Medford, NJ! Schedule a consultation online or call 609.365.0673 today!