Foods Preventing Tooth Decay

Plenty is reported in the news about certain foods and drinks that are not good for teeth, with syrup-laden sodas and sugary treats being at the top of the list. However, you may not be aware there are some foods that aid in the prevention of tooth decay. These foods either help restore weakened enamel or contain nutrients like protein that help strengthen it before it wears away. For that reason, it’s important to incorporate some of these foods into your diet.

Seafood

There are two important reasons shellfish, lobsters, and fish can be good for teeth. First, most seafood contains fluoride, which can help keep teeth healthy and strong. This specific type of fluoride can help reduce the risk of tooth decay. Second, seafood can be a good source of lean protein, which helps keep teeth strong in general.

Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables

Crunchy fruits and vegetables contain a high fiber content that helps stimulate the flow of saliva in the mouth. Apples, celery, and carrots help to give the mouth a good cleaning. Saliva that is produced when eating crunchy vegetables rinses away remaining sugar from teeth before it can attack healthy tooth enamel. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fruits like apples that are high in sugar have enough water and fiber in them to balance the sugar’s effects.

Nuts & Other Sources of Protein

Similar to seafood, there are a variety of other foods containing the same protein that help teeth in the same way. Nuts are good source of protein, along with phosphorous and calcium, which help strengthen teeth’s enamel. Lean meat, eggs, and chicken are also great for teeth due to their own protein.

Cheese & Diary

Cheese contains protein and calcium and is low in sugar content, which makes it helpful to build the strength of the teeth’s enamel. It was recently found that eating cheese protects the teeth from cavities. Participants in a study who chewed on cheese for three minutes saw their mouths’ pH levels increase over the course of 30 minutes. Research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that drinking milk after eating sweets reduced the amount of plaque buildup on teeth. Milk also helps remineralize teeth.

Diet is very important to oral health, but it should not be used as a replacement for a regular oral care routine at home. Remember to brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and to floss daily. See your dentist twice a year for cleanings and a checkup.

If you or a loved one is in need of a visit to the dentist, you can sign up for our New Hampshire Family Discount Dental Plan and save as much as 20 percent on your dental bills. For more information, please click here. We also offer Employee Discount Dental Plans for business owners offering dental to their employees.

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