10 Best Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

10 Best Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

There is a well-known saying that you are what you eat. When we talk about oral health, it is no different. Your diet has a significant impact on your oral structures, so here is a list of the best foods for them:

1. Yoghurt

It is high in calcium which reinforces tooth enamel. It is rich in probiotics which help promote the natural flora of your mouth and help with bad breath too. Opt for plain and sugar-free yoghurts for optimum benefits.

2. Cheese

This is another high calcium food that leads to strong tooth and bone structure. Certain types, like cheddar, help neutralise acidity levels in your mouth which results in the prevention of tooth decay.

3. Apples

Due to their crunchy nature, they help stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps flush away food particles and bacteria while also balancing acidity levels. The fibre present in them has been proven to be beneficial for gums.

4. Almonds

They have abundant amounts of calcium and protein but are low in sugar. They assist in lowering blood sugar levels and increasing saliva production. Steer clear of sugar-coated or salted nuts to reap their full benefits.

5. Berries

Cranberries and blueberries contain polyphenols that hinder glucan production- a process leading to plaque formation. Strawberries are abundant in vitamin C, which is important for healthy gums due to its role in collagen.

6. Carrots

They require a lot of chewing, which leads to increased salivary flow and gum stimulation. They contain Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Keratin, which is valuable for the health of gums and teeth.

7. Cinnamon

This spice contains natural plant oils that have been proven to fight off bacterial and fungal infections in the mouth. It helps with treating gum diseases and preventing caries.

8. Green tea

It inhibits bacterial growth through natural antimicrobial action, prevents periodontal bone resorption, and reduces inflammation in gums. They also help lower blood sugar.

9. Onions

Raw onions have antibacterial sulphur compounds which help fend off bacteria, thus preventing gum diseases and cavities. They also help strengthen teeth.

10. Green leafy vegetables

They boost chewing action resulting in increased saliva production. Additionally, they can be beneficial in lowering blood sugar levels and warding off bacterial infections.

The author is a contributing writer at Dental News Pakistan and can be reached at nehl9967@gmail.com