Some Foods that are Friendly to Teeth
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A healthy diet is essential to have healthy teeth. Bacteria starts to grow the minute the food goes into the mouth, and different foods cause more or less bacteria. The bacteria that develop in the mouth converts the sugars in the food into acid which begins to decay the tooth enamel. Eating meals and snacks in between meals without brushing or at least rinsing the mouth with water exposes the teeth to a constant source of acid. Some foods actually help remove bacteria and decay causing acid.
• Raw celery and carrot take a lot of chewing which produces a lot of saliva. Saliva neutralizes the acids that attack teeth. An added bonus is the abrasiveness of celery and carrots that cleans between the teeth and massages the gums.
• Green tea will actually kill bacteria in the mouth, which stops the bacteria from changing the sugar and starch to acid. Removing the bacteria also keeps the breath fresh.
• Dairy products including milk, yogurt and cheese are very low in sugar and acidity. This reduces the possibility for tooth decay. They are also high in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth. Cheese balances the pH in the mouth and keeps the acid in check. It also produces more saliva that kills bacteria.
• Sesame seeds also contain a lot of calcium and have the added benefit of dissolving plaque on the teeth. They can be sprinkled on salads or vegetables or eaten in breads. Like raw vegetables, they have a cleansing action when they are chewed.
• Raw onions are anti-bacterial and very good for the teeth. Other vegetables such as sweet potato, broccoli, carrots and pumpkin are high in Vitamin A which is the basis for the formation of tooth enamel. Chewing fresh mint and parsley after a meal will help make the breath fresh.
• Fresh fruit especially fruit with a lot of Vitamin C such as Kiwi is very good for the teeth and gums. A deficiency in Vitamin C can cause the collagen in the gums to break down making them weak and soft which causes slight pain and susceptibility to gum disease.
• Water is another important food for healthy teeth. Rinsing the mouth with water removes sugars and food particles from between the teeth so they don’t have time to turn into acid. Drinking water stimulates saliva, the body’s best defence against the bacteria that makes the acid that causes cavities and plaque.
Becca is a freelance writer and contributes to a number of blogs; including those to do with Health, pregnancy and Eco-friendly living. Check out her Twitter at @HealthyBecca
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