The old adage, “You are what you eat,” may not be 100 percent accurate but it communicates an important message: the food you choose impacts your wellbeing, including your dental health. Eating a balanced diet will promote a beautiful smile and keep your teeth and gums strong. By the same token, too many sweets and sugary beverages can weaken enamel and contribute to problems like tooth decay. As you think about what to eat, consider these foods and important nutrients:

Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy snacks like carrots, celery, and apples not only provide good nutritional options, but these foods actually help teeth stay clean by removing plaque and bacteria from teeth.

Calcium
Necessary for strong bones, calcium can be found in dairy items such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, including low-fat options. Surprisingly, broccoli, almonds, and dried beans also provide an excellence source for calcium.

Vitamin C
Centuries ago, sailors on long voyages would eat lemons to combat various diseases. The Vitamin C in this fruit also helped prevent bleeding gums. Eating fruits rich in this nutrient is still a good choice today.

Whole Grains
Full of B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, whole grains promote gum health. Because they are high in fiber, they also increase saliva production, which washes away plaque and fights against cavities.

Green or black tea
Both of these beverages supply naturally-occurring fluoride to your mouth. Also, black tea lessens the growth of certain enzymes that allow plaque to stick to your teeth.

Water
Not only does water wash bacteria and plaque from your mouth, but it also hydrates gum and removes decay-causing food particles from in between teeth.

Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry for the whole family – Toronto Canada Dentist