There are a lot of lists of foods to avoid if you want to keep your teeth white and healthy. Some include wine, coffee, anything acidic (pickles, vinegar, etc.) sugar, soda and more. Here is a list of foods that are good for your teeth and can help keep your smile white!
Dairy – Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all healthy for your bones, which mean they are healthy for your teeth. Proteins contained in milk products help keep your enamel in good shape, which is the protective coating on your teeth. If your enamel wears down, the whiteness starts becoming more yellow. Calcium and vitamin D are also plentiful in dairy products that will keep your teeth strong. Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium so make sure you’re eating plenty of both!
Meats/Fish/Tofu – Any healthy cut of meat (lean for meat, fatty for fish) or tofu will benefit your body by providing phosphorus, which is a mineral that also helps protect your tooth enamel. This doesn’t mean that you should be eating steak every night, but you should eat in moderation and choose healthy meat as your main protein. Also remember, wine may taste good with your meal, but having too much with your meal can negate some of the positive effects the protein is having on your body.
Dark Greens – Broccoli, bok choy, kale, spinach or any other dark greens are extremely beneficial to your whole body. Not only do they give you essential vitamins and minerals that help your body function properly as a whole, but they can also help vegetarians or vegans who do not consume meat or dairy products. The more bitter and the darker the green is, the more goodies it has for your body. Iceberg lettuce does not count!
Vegetables – The crunchier the better! French fries may be considered a vegetable but we are talking more about celery, carrots or cucumbers; all of which contain a lot of water and require a bit of chewing before you swallow. The motion of eating these vegetables in their raw state helps clean the surface of your teeth and also helps create saliva in the mouth, which naturally keeps your teeth cleaner. The vegetables themselves also have good nutrition and fiber that can keep your body healthy from the inside out.
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating patients in the New Fairfield, CT area for over twenty-five years. If you have any dental concerns call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.