Your diet affects your entire body, including the health of your teeth. At Choice Orthodontics, we want to ensure that you are eating the best possible foods to increase your oral health. Our Gallatin orthodontist, Dr. Windhorst, recommends eating more of the following foods: cheese, apples, leafy greens, carrots, yogurt, almonds, and celery. These foods all add something different to your oral health and are great at keeping your teeth strong and functional. Continue reading to learn more about these specific foods and, as always, call or visit our orthodontist and staff at Choice Orthodontics in Saint Joseph, Gallatin, Hiawatha, and Atchison, MO!
Cheese
If you love cheese, you’re in luck because it’s also great for your teeth. The American Academy of General Dentistry reported that eating cheese increases the pH level of your mouth and therefore reduces the risk of tooth decay. Cheese also contains high levels of protein and calcium, both of which are excellent nutrients to strengthen the enamel on your teeth.
Apples
Apples are high in fiber and water. When you eat an apple, your mouth produces a high level of saliva, which basically acts like a bath for your teeth. The extra saliva will rinse away bacteria and food particles in your mouth. Also, apples have a great fibrous texture which stimulates your teeth and gums. Although eating an apple is not the same as brushing your teeth, it can act like a mini-brushing during the day and give your teeth a good scrubbing.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are excellent for your body's overall health, but especially your teeth. Greens like kale and spinach are high in calcium, folic acid, and vitamin B. This combination of nutrients strengthens your enamel, can treat gum disease in pregnant women, and a number of other health benefits.
Carrots
Like apples, carrots are also very high in fiber. Eating a raw carrot increases the saliva production in your mouth and in turn, reduces your risk of cavities. The crunchy, fibrous texture can have a scrubbing affect on your teeth and brush away some plaque and bacteria. Carrots are also quite high in vitamin A, which is an excellent nutrient for your body and teeth.
Yogurt
Similar to cheese, yogurt is also high in protein and calcium. By consuming yogurt, you will strengthen the enamel and health of your teeth. The probiotics in yogurt are also excellent for your mouth and gums because the good bacteria decreases the amount of bad bacteria. Bad bacteria is known for causing cavities, so by decreasing the levels you will also decrease your risk for cavities. At Choice Orthodontics, our orthodontist recommends consuming yogurt with no added sugars.
Almonds
Almonds are an amazing source of protein and calcium, but have extremely low levels of sugars. They are great raw or added to different meals. Consuming almonds will strengthen the enamel on your teeth and your overall oral health.
Celery
Celery is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Both antioxidants boost your gum and mouth health. Celery too has a great fibrous texture, like apples and carrots. Again, it can act like a mini-brushing/scrubbing on your teeth when consuming celery.
Contact Choice Orthodontics for Braces & Invisalign Today!
If you have questions or concerns about your orthodontic treatment or healthy foods for your teeth, never hesitate to consult Choice Orthodontics or ask about our emergency care. Feel free to drop by or book an appointment by requesting an appointment online. We look forward to seeing you soon!