Everyone knows that a proper diet and nutrition are pertinent to your body’s general health, but did you know that what you eat is equally dependent on your oral health?  The general rules are to limit foods that are highly acidic or high in sugar. However, there are also more good foods than bad that can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits include oranges, pineapples and tomatoes. These fruits are high in vitamin c, which is critical for the health of your gums. Healthy gums are an essential function to maintaining healthy teeth. Without enough vitamin C, gums might become unhealthy and even bleed, an early sign of gum disease. Be sure to include a lot of fresh citrus fruits for healthy gums and stable teeth!

Fiber Rich Foods

When you chew foods that are high in fiber, salivation increases to help wash away any food debris and bacteria that can be harmful to teeth and gums. Some fresh fruits that are high in fiber include watermelons, apples, pears and oranges. The increase in saliva will also help to reduce the acid levels in your mouth and help to deter any dry mouth, which can make teeth more vulnerable to decay. Fiber also provides the benefit of a nice gum massage!

Hard Vegetables

Eating hard and fibrous vegetables such as carrots and celery help to provide a good amount of beta carotene, which is used to make the vital nutrient vitamin A used to build strong teeth. Like fiber, hard vegetables help to massage your gums as you chew, and their water content helps to clean your teeth and gums.

Onions

Thanks to an antibacterial sulfur compound found in onions, they are extremely beneficial for your teeth. The antibacterial compound helps to kill bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Although it may be more appetizing to eat cooked onions, they work best when eaten fresh and uncooked. Try adding raw onions to your salad. Be sure to keep a mouth rinse handy for refreshing breath once you’ve finished eating!

Your dentist in Atlanta says cheers to eating for a better smile. Keep these foods in mind next time you reach for a snack and your teeth will thank you!