We all want a bright, white smile, but did you know that what you eat can have a big impact on the health and appearance of your teeth? From fighting off harmful bacteria to strengthening enamel, certain foods can go a long way toward keeping your teeth and gums healthy and looking their best. Here are 10 foods you should consider adding to your diet for a brighter, whiter smile:.
1. Apples
Apples are often called nature’s toothbrush, and for good reason. Crunching into an apple helps scrub away plaque and bacteria while helping to stimulate saliva production to neutralize acid that can erode your teeth’s enamel.
Apples also contain malic acid, which is a natural teeth whitener.
2. Cheese
Cheese is high in calcium, which strengthens and protects your teeth from decay. And studies have found that chewing on cheese can increase saliva production, which helps wash away harmful bacteria and neutralize acid in your mouth.
3. Carrots
Carrots are high in fiber and crunch, which makes them great for scrubbing away plaque and promoting healthy gums. They’re also high in vitamin A, which helps strengthen tooth enamel and promote saliva production.
4. Pineapple
Pineapple is a great source of vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria. And it contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is a natural stain remover that can help whiten your teeth.
5. Yogurt
Yogurt is loaded with calcium and probiotics, which help strengthen teeth and promote healthy gums. It can also help neutralize acid in your mouth, which can erode your teeth’s enamel and lead to cavities.
6. Strawberries
Strawberries are high in vitamin C and contain an enzyme called malic acid, which can help whiten teeth.
But be careful – the acid in strawberries can also erode your teeth’s enamel if you eat them too frequently or leave them on your teeth for too long.
7. Almonds
Almonds are high in calcium and protein, which help strengthen and protect teeth. And because they’re low in sugar, they won’t contribute to tooth decay like many other snacks.
8. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are low in sugar and high in water, which makes them great for promoting saliva production and washing away harmful bacteria. And their crunchy texture makes them a great snack for scrubbing away plaque.
9. Water
Water is essential for overall health, and it’s especially important for healthy teeth and gums. Drinking water helps wash away harmful bacteria and neutralize acid in your mouth, which can erode your teeth’s enamel.
10. Green tea
Green tea is high in antioxidants, which help protect teeth and gums from inflammation and harmful bacteria. And it contains compounds called catechins, which help fight off the bacteria that causes plaque and bad breath.
Conclusion
Eating a diet that’s low in sugar and high in nutrients is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Incorporating these 10 foods into your diet can help promote oral health and keep your smile looking its best.