Would you believe us if we said there was more to good oral health than just brushing and flossing? While those are two integral things to your teeth, there’s another big component of oral health that you might be forgetting—nutrition!
What we eat (and don’t eat) can actually play a big role in the health of our mouth, and contribute to preventing serious oral health problems.
Here are five different foods that we approve of in your everyday diet.
1. Fatty fish. Fish like mackerel and salmon are high in Vitamin D, which is critical for helping to absorb calcium in the body. Without enough calcium, our gums and teeth are at higher risk of common oral diseases.
2. Dairy. Did you know that foods like cheese, [yogurt] and milk provide 10 essential nutrients like Vitamins A and B12, protein, carbohydrates, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium to name a few? Some research suggests that some dairy contains casein, and when combined with phosphorus and calcium, it forms a protective protein film on top of the surface of our teeth.
3. Green tea. Instead of reaching for a sugary drink, go for green tea instead. Green tea contains polyphenols that work to suppress or even kill bacteria that causes plaque, not to mention it lowers saliva acidity which may help prevent cavities.
4. Mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms have both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can aid in the prevention of both gum disease and cavities.
5. Sesame seeds. High in calcium, sesame seeds help to preserve the bone around your teeth and gums. They’re also small but mighty, helping to scrape off plaque when you consume them.
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