Practicing proper at-home hygiene, limiting excessive sugar consumption, and maintaining good dietary habits are vital for our oral health. While it’s good to know when an extra brushing or flossing is needed, understanding which foods support your smile can help you maintain your oral health.
Foods, Snacks, and Beverages to Preserve Your Smile
- Water – Drinking water is good for your overall health and your smile. Fluoridated water fights cavities and strengthens dental enamel.
- Dairy Products – Milk, cheese, and healthy yogurt are low in sugar and high in calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth.
- Fruits and Vegetables – Crispy fruits and vegetables are especially good for your smile. Remember to rinse after eating citrus fruits and wait 30 minutes to brush, as the acidic juices can wear down enamel.
- Nuts and Legumes – These snacks are an excellent choice because they contain protein and minerals that are good for your teeth and gums, and are low in carbohydrates.
- Sugarless Gum – Chewing sugarless gum can help clean leftover food debris from your teeth. The act of chewing also stimulates saliva production which is necessary to support a healthy oral environment.
- Lean Proteins – Meats, poultry, and fish contain phosphorus and protein, which help strengthen teeth. Be sure to floss after eating meat as pieces can easily get stuck between teeth.
What to Avoid for a Healthy Smile
Many foods and beverages can cause damage to teeth; hard candy is full of sugar and can break teeth (as can popcorn). Chewy or sticky foods snacks stay on your teeth and can pull out fillings.
Chewing on ice can also damage your teeth, and the same goes for pens and pencils. Any use of tobacco products will weaken and stain your smile. It can also lead to oral cancer.
Optimize Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Brush, floss, and drink water or rinse throughout the day. Eat healthily and make sure to add a brushing on days that you consume harmful foods and beverages. Contact us at Windsor Park Dental for more information about preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental care in Winnipeg.