Daily habit makes a big difference on general health as well as on teeth. We understand that maintaining healthy teeth is a matter of daily dental care along with a tooth-friendly diet. Daily care involves flossing and brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. And here are foods that are great for dental health.
★ Foods that are great for dental health
① Milk and Eggs
Consuming calcium-rich foods, such as milk and eggs, builds strong bones and teeth. The jawbone is particularly susceptible to the effects of low calcium. It can weaken because of low calcium intake, which in turn causes teeth to loosen, leaving a person at greater risk for gum disease. Human beings can also get their daily vitamin D from about 15 to 30 minutes of sun exposure. The body requires a dose of vitamin D to absorb calcium, which in turn strengthens bones and teeth.
② Cheese and Yoghurt
Cheese and Yoghurt are also rich in calcium and phosphorus, which protect tooth enamel and even help replace minerals in teeth: a process called remineralisation. Cheese contains casein, a protein found in milk products that can shore up enamel.
③ Meat, Fish, and Tofu
They are loaded with phosphorus, another important mineral that may protect tooth enamel. Homemade broth made from meat bones is a particular good source of this essential mineral.
④ Broccoli, Celery, and Other Crunchy Leafy Veggies
They are excellent vegetarian options to get plenty of vitamins and minerals. They contain lots of water and are also good for oral health because they stimulate the flow of saliva and can actually scrub tooth surfaces, brightening your pearly whites. Celery is full of water and fibrous strands, this raw veggie is basically nature’s floss.
⑤ Nuts, Sunflower seeds, and Sesame
They contain natural fats that shield teeth protecting them against different bacteria. The oil present inside the seeds strengthens tooth enamel which further makes teeth resistant to cavities. Some of the seeds also contain calcium which is healthy for teeth as well.
⑥ Tea
While tea may stain teeth, studies have shown that compounds in black tea or green tea can destroy or suppress the growth of cavity-causing bacteria in dental plaque, which can help prevent both cavities and gum disease.
⑦ Water
Drinking plenty of water is best for teeth and body. It benefits teeth as it helps rinse away both bacteria and the remnants of food that bacteria turn into plaque. Aside from washing out plaque and food particles from your mouth, water makes sure that your mouth stays hydrated so that bacterial growth is retarded. People who drink less water, have thick saliva and are more prone to caries and staining of teeth.
⑧ Vitamin C-Rich Foods
You can get vitamin C from citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, as well as berries. Potatoes are also high in vitamin C. Vitamin C helps repair tissue damage, fights infections, slows down bacterial growth in your mouth and also prevents gum disease.
★ Foods to Avoid
① Sugary Snacks, Gummy and Hard Candies
They stick in your teeth and should be avoided. Foods with high sugar content allow bacteria to produce acid that cause cavities. No matter what you eat, it’s important to brush and floss afterwards or at least to rinse your mouth with water.
② Pickles, Coffee, and Soda
Strong acidic foods are the number-one cause of enamel erosion and tooth decay. Minimize your acid exposure by drinking the juice in one sitting and then avoiding other acidic foods and drinks for several hours. Regular soda gives a double hit to teeth, combining sugar with acids.
★ Tips
① If you eat acidic or sugary foods or drinks then have them as part of a meal rather than on their own.
② Though brushing after a meal is generally a good idea, avoid brushing your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods. Acid softens your enamel, and brushing can speed up tooth wear.
③ Use fluoride toothpaste, which can help repair enamel, and reduce the risk of tooth decay and dental erosion.
④ Don’t swish acidic drinks or hold them in your mouth — this exposes the teeth to acids for longer than necessary.
Keeping Our Patients Safe:
Under the guidance of the BC Provincial Health, the College of Dental Surgeons of BC and the BC Dental Association, we have implemented strict new clinic standards and safety measures in order to help protect our patients and staff, which include:
- Pre-screening all patients for COVID-19 prior to accepting in-person appointments.
- Providing hand sanitizing stations and following strict hand hygiene protocols.
- Increasing the frequency of sanitization of high-touch areas and surfaces.
- Limiting the number of people in the clinic at one time and practicing physical distancing protocols.
The health & safety of our patients has always been our top priority. We encourage everyone to stay safe and to follow the directions of Health Canada and your local health authorities.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us! Great thanks for your understanding and support!
Contact Family Care Dental Clinic for your consultation today!
Located in the heart of North Vancouver, BC, Family Care Dental Clinic is a group of passionate dentists and dental experts who are committed to providing patients with exceptional dental care in a modern and relaxing environment. We at Family Care Dental Clinic offer our clients a wide range of comprehensive dental services for the whole family.
Call (604) 987-3545 or write us at info@familycaredentalclinic.com to schedule an appointment with a member of our excellent team!