Most of us understand how daily at-home dental routines can protect our teeth and keep them happy. We also understand how important it is to see a dentist regularly for a thorough cleaning and checkup.
And, while we know that sugary foods and beverages aren't the best things for our teeth, not everyone knows that certain foods can be very good for your teeth.
The things we eat and drink every day can have a long-term impact on the condition of our oral health - which means this is a question that goes far beyond just avoiding sugary snacks.
First, let's go over those foods that really ought to be avoided for the good of your teeth.
Sugary Foods - This one is the classic, of course. The germs and bacteria in our mouths feed on sugar and create plaque.
Processed Foods - A lot of the processed foods at the local mega-mart contain additives that can be bad for your teeth. This includes refined sugars, oils, and processed white flowers.
Packaged Foods - These fall in the same category as processed foods because they are usually filled with a range of chemicals and additives to make them last longer. These same elements can make it harder for your body to absorb the nutrients your teeth and gums need.
And here's one more that fits in a weird category:
Fruits - Fructose is still sugar, and it gives those bacteria something to feed on. This doesn't mean you should give up fruits entirely, just that you should be sure to rinse or brush right after you have it.
Fruits provide a lot of healthy nutrients that we all need, but it's important to be totally aware of the foods we consume. And so while you need to make sure you're getting plenty of good foods,
Now, let's take a look at some of the foods that you can enjoy regularly and see a beneficial impact on your teeth.
Vegetables - This is the classic choice. Leafy greens, carrots, and celery can all have a big impact on your oral health. Greens provide calcium, B vitamins, and more that help builds tooth enamel. Celery in particular is also great for your gums.
Raw Dairy - Raw, unpasteurized dairy products contain enough calcium and protein to strengthen and build teeth and jawbones. The probiotics in certain yogurts can also be beneficial to your gums. The unpasteurized dairy is also easier for your body to absorb and start making use of the vitamins and nutrients.
Nuts, Seeds, and Beans - If you consume nuts, beans, and seeds after they've sprouted, you can get a lot more dental benefits.
Coconut Oil - This special oil contains lauric acid, which can be broken down into monolaurin. This can help kill off harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Certain Animal Products - Bone broth and marrow can provide bone-building nutrients that rejuvenate bone cells and strengthen your teeth. The liver is also a superfood that contains vitamins A and D, which can prevent gum disease, lower your risk of tooth decay, and increase your body's ability to add calcium and minerals to your bones and teeth.
Unfermented Grains - These are grains that are made with artificial leavening agents, which means they're probably packed with a bunch of refined carbohydrates, which contribute to plaque buildup on your teeth.
A conscientious and holistic approach to dental health and how it relates to your diet can have a strong impact on your overall oral.