Did you know that taking care of your diet is an easy way to keep your teeth as healthy as possible? Home care for your teeth is much more than the usual daily brushing and flossing. Diet is a huge benefactor for keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Here are 4 diet tips to help get you started:
1-Calcium
Calcium is important for strong bones, but it is also important for having strong teeth. Eating calcium rich foods will help your teeth stay strong and protected. Good sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, soy milk, salmon, and dark leafy greens.
2- Vitamins and Minerals
Calcium is not the only mineral that protects the teeth. Phosphorus and potassium also help the teeth, as well as vitamins A, C, D, and K. See below the benefits and how to include these vitamins and minerals into your diet:
- Phosphorus supports calcium in building strong bones and teeth. (Salmon, shrimp, cod, soybeans, lentils, beef, and cheese)
- Potassium improves bone mineral density. (Lima beans, tomatoes, Swiss chard, potatoes, sweet potatoes, avocados, and prunes.)
- Vitamin A keeps mucous membranes healthy. It prevents dry mouth and helps your mouth heal quicker. (Fish, egg yolks, spinach, kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes)
- Vitamin C strengthen your gums and the soft tissue in your mouth. It can protect against gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, and can prevent your teeth from loosening. (Citrus fruits, potatoes, and leafy greens)
- Vitamin K helps block substances that break down bone. (Kale, spinach, parsley, broccoli, and Brussel sprouts.)
- Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium while boosting bone mineral density. (Natural sunlight. Fatty fish, canned tuna, portobello mushrooms, milk, orange juice and cereal)
3- Skip the Sugar
We all are guilty of indulging in the many delicious comfort foods that are full of sugar. However, it can weaken the tooth enamel, which can cause sensitivity and tooth decay. Limit the amount of sweets and be sure to drink water after indulging to clean away any excess sugar after eating. Especially in the summer it gets warmer and we enjoy flavored beverages and foods that have high concentrations of sugar.
4- The Right Beverages
Our beverages are just as important as our food choices. Acidic drinks, such as fruit juices and soft drinks, can also weaken your tooth enamel and cause decay. Certain drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine, can also affect the color of your teeth. Just like sugar, try to indulge in these drinks with moderation. The best beverages for your teeth are water, milk, and unsweetened tea.