Foods for a Healthy Smile

We know that certain foods are good for our bodies including heart, eyes, muscles, bones, etc. But did you know some foods can help to improve your oral health? Here are some foods that are good for your smile:

Crunchy and Chewy Foods: Crunchy and chewy foods, such as carrots, celery and nuts, cause saliva to flow. Saliva neutralizes the acids formed by cavity-causing bacteria. Sticky and sweet foods, on the other hand, help that bacteria grow and develop into plaque – a bacterial buildup that can give rise to cavities.

Milk and Cheese: Milk and cheese are naturally good for your teeth. Not only do they provide calcium, which helps make teeth and bones strong, they also deliver casein, a protein that reduces cavity formation.

Yogurt: Researchers from Japan, publishing their findings in the Journal of Periodontology, analyzed dietary intakes from nearly 1,000 adults and found those who consumed the highest levels of dairy – specifically yogurt and yogurt-type drinks – had the healthiest gums. Researchers believe the probiotics (a.k.a. “good bacteria”) in yogurt might be responsible for protecting gums. A 2005 study also found that yogurt can stop the growth of bad-breath-causing bacteria.

Garlic, Apples, Grapes, Shiitake Mushrooms, Cocoa, and Nutmeg: Several foods directly combat the bacteria that cause cavities, bad breath and gum disease. Garlic, apples, grapes, shiitake mushrooms, cocoa and nutmeg contain compounds that may prevent cavity-causing bacteria from adhering to teeth.

Raisins: You might think that because raisins are sweet and sticky, they’re not good for your oral health. But research has shown that antioxidants in raisins fight the growth of a type of bacteria that can cause inflammation and gum disease, according to research from the Illinois College of Dentistry.

Green Tea: Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins that may tamp down the body’s inflammatory response to the bacteria that cause gum disease. A study found that a daily cup of green tea significantly lowered Japanese men’s risk of developing gum disease. The polyphenols in black tea can help destroy the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath, too.

Water: Water keeps your throat and lips moist and prevents your mouth from feeling dry. Dry mouth can cause bad breath and/or an unpleasant taste–and can even promote cavities.

Bring this list with you on your next trip to the grocery store or add a few of these foods to your shopping list and pick up something delicious that can make your smile healthier.