Which Foods Are the Healthiest for Your Teeth?

Every January, countless people make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight and eat healthier. As an added bonus, many of the same foods that are good for your waistline are also good for your teeth. Dentists recommend eating plenty of fresh, natural foods that are low in sugar and high in calcium. Leafy greens, fruits, and nuts are all at the top of the list.

Apples

Apples are naturally sweet, making them a great alternative to desserts and snacks with added sugar. By choosing an apple instead of a few cookies, you’ll reduce the amount of sugar your teeth are exposed to, which can help fight tooth decay. Apples have other benefits as well. The crunchy, fibrous texture of the apple stimulates the gums and triggers the production of saliva. Saliva is important for washing away particles of food and bacteria.

Leafy Greens

Dairy products aren’t the only foods that are high in calcium. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are also chock-full of this important mineral, which helps keep your teeth and bones strong. Look for ways of incorporating more leafy greens into your diet, such as by adding spinach to your tacos or pizza. When you make salads, you can make your own sugar-free salad dressing from olive oil, vinegar, and freshly cracked pepper.

Almonds

Almonds are often included on lists of superfoods. They contain lots of calcium and protein to help protect your teeth. And since they are naturally free of added sugar, almonds make the perfect snack or salad topper.

Cheese

While cheese is too high in calories to be considered a diet food, it’s actually very good for your teeth. Enjoy small amounts of cheese in moderation to boost your calcium intake. Cheese may also offer a protective benefit beyond its calcium content. Research suggests that eating cheese will raise the pH level of the mouth, which reduces the risk of enamel erosion and tooth decay.

Even if you follow a smile-friendly diet, it’s still important to get a professional teeth cleaning every six months. Park 56 Dental provides comprehensive preventive, general, and restorative dentistry services. You can call our dental clinic in NYC at (646) 783-3529 to request an appointment.