Foods for a More Beautiful Smile
You probably know that eating too much sugar can damage your teeth, but did you know that some foods can strengthen your teeth? Just as your diet can build strong bones and muscles, it can also help strengthen enamel, fight plaque and even battle bacteria.
- Whole grains. Whole grains are one way we can strengthen our gums. They are rich in B vitamins and iron, both of which are linked with stronger gums. One study revealed that men who ate a minimum of three servings of whole grains a day were 23 percent less likely to suffer from gum disease.
- Vegetables. Orange vegetables, like carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps build strong teeth, while water-rich veggies, such as celery, massage your gums and rinse away dangerous plaque and starch that can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Dairy products. Drinking milk or eating yogurt and cheese can help you get the calcium you need to build and remineralize dental enamel.
- Sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium, but they are also abrasive, which means they can clean away plaque buildup that can increase your risk of gum disease and dental decay.
- Protein. Meat, eggs and other sources of lean protein can provide you with phosphorus, which helps build strong dental enamel and maintain a healthy pH level in your mouth.
Certain foods and beverages can also increase your risk of staining and increase your need for teeth whitening treatments. These include soft drinks, wines, juices and coffees or teas. Drinking more water can reduce your need for these beverages and help rinse away cavity-causing sugars and starches from the foods you eat.
Contact our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist to learn more about your options or to schedule a consultation.