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The Best Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Learning to look after our teeth is one of the first things we’re taught as child, from how to brush correctly to warnings not to consume too many sweets or fizzy drinks. Health warnings are often only concerned with what’s bad for our teeth; useful nonetheless, but what about those foods that can help encourage tooth and gum health? Nothing can replace regular dentist visits and thorough tooth brushing, but see below for just a few of the foods that can help keep your teeth and gums in tiptop condition.

Cheese

Cheeselovers can rejoice as this calcium rich food is great for helping to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Hard cheeses such as cheddar also increase saliva production which can reduce bacteria in the mouth, and cheese lowers acid levels which can help prevent the buildup of plaque.

Leafy greens

Believe it or not, dark, leafy greens such as spinach or kale are also rich in calcium; perfect for any vegans or those who are lactose intolerant. Calcium helps build tooth enamel, and leafy greens are also packed with folic acid, a type of B vitamin which can reduce gum inflammation.

Nuts                  

Chewing on nuts also releases that all important saliva, and they’re full of important elements like calcium, phosphorus and zinc. Almonds, Brazil nuts and cashewsare some of the best, and can help fight tooth-decaying bacteria.

Cranberries

This small red fruit contains a compound that can stop bacteria sticking to teeth and forming plaque. Be careful though and stick to fresh cranberries when you can -most cranberries juices are high in sugar.

Carrots

Not just good for your eyes, the beta carotene found in carrots is needed by the body to produce Vitamin A, a key nutrient for strong and healthy teeth. Chewing carrots or other raw vegetables like celery is also an effective way to help scrape off plaque in between meals.

Onions

It might sound odd, but onions are proven to be very beneficial for gum health. They neutralize oral bacteria and contain microbial properties which can fight cavity-causing plaque.

Eating healthily can only do so much, so it’s vital to visit the dentist regularly to keep your teeth and gums in check. The expert team at Acorn Dental Practice are on hand to provide a wide range of treatments, from regular checkups to fillings, dentures and gum disease treatment. Based in York, our friendly, professional team will put you at ease, so give us a call or visit the website today.