Healthy
teeth and a healthy mouth require more than just regular brushing and flossing. A beautiful smile begins with a healthy diet. Eating the right foods and drinking the right beverages can strengthen your teeth and help boost your oral health.
Vitamin C for your Gums
Vitamin C plays an important role in keeping the gums healthy because it helps to strengthen and maintain the collagen network in your gums. If you do not get enough vitamin C, this collagen network can break down, making the gums more vulnerable to the bacteria that can cause periodontal disease. In addition, vitamin C boosts immunity, which can prevent illness and infection. Aside from citrus fruits, foods that are rich in vitamin C include red and green peppers, guava, kiwi fruit, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes.
The Benefits of Calcium
Foods that are high in calcium also play a role in good oral health. Contrary to popular belief, calcium does not play a direct role in rebuilding the teeth; however, calcium is still important for oral health because it strengthens the jaw bone and other bones that are associated with the teeth and face. Milk, yoghurt and cheese are all good sources of calcium. Cheese may be an especially good choice because studies suggest that it helps balance the pH of the mouth and increases saliva production, which helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
Crunchy Raw Fruits and Veggies Remove Harmful Bacteria
In addition to the nutrients that you consume, you should consider the characteristics of the foods themselves. For example, crunchy, unprocessed foods such as celery, apples and lettuce can help clear away harmful bacteria from the mouth and cause your body to produce more saliva, which also plays a role in getting rid of bacteria in the mouth. Many of these foods are also high in vitamin A, which is important for the formation of tooth enamel before the teeth erupt.
Drinking plenty of water and green tea can also help maintain your oral health. Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to the formation of plaque. In addition, some studies indicate that green tea is beneficial for oral health because it is a good source of polyphenols, an antioxidant that plays a role in preventing plaque from sticking to the teeth. Tap water and green tea made from tap water also may be good sources of fluoride, because many cities add fluoride to their public water supply. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and plays a role in preventing tooth decay.
Watching your diet provides many benefits for your health, including your oral health. Include a healthy portion of these foods in your daily diet. Eating right, as well as brushing and flossing regularly, will help ensure that you can enjoy your smile for years to come.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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