Can Your Diet Help Improve Your Oral Hygiene?

As any experienced dentist can tell you, regularly brushing and flossing routines are crucial to preserving the health of your teeth. In fact, both ways help you to get rid of food particles and sugars that team up with various bacteria to form plaque, which will ultimately damage the teeth enamel, and cause cavities and other dental issues.
In the light of recent research, it has been proven that you can also fight bacteria and plaque by paying more attention to your diet. The following are some of the foods and beverages that can help you strengthen the enamel, and ensure fresh breath and healthier teeth.
Black or green tea
Not only is tea rich in antioxidants, but it also contains polyphenols which reduce the growth rate of the bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease. Green tea also includes catechins that kill the microorganisms capable of turning sugars into plaque.
Apples
While everyone is familiar with the old idiom that ‘an apple per day keeps the doctor away’, a recent study showed that there is more truth to the saying than we thought. In addition to containing ten of the most essential minerals and around fifteen of the vitamins your body requires on a daily basis, apples also enhance saliva production, increase the blood flow in the gums and reduce buildups responsible for plaque.
Cheese
Derived from milk, cheese is one of the greatest sources of calcium, an essential nutrient for the normal development of bones and teeth, especially in children. Numerous studies indicate that by eating cheese on a regular basis, children and teens are less likely to develop cavities. Take note that certain types of cheese contain high amounts of fats, so eating in moderation is advisable.
Kiwi
Even though most people turn to apples for their vitamin C, the kiwi fruit packs considerably more of the nutrient than any other fruit. Besides ensuring a 100% intake of vitamin C, kiwi is also responsible for maintaining the optimal collagen levels in the gums, thus making them less vulnerable to bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Strawberries also constitute as an equally viable source of vitamin C.
Lean proteins
Lean beef, skinless poultry, fish and eggs are not only good for your muscles, but they also help strengthen the teeth and rebuild the enamel. Moreover, lean protein foods have the added benefit of containing phosphorus, a mineral that keeps the pH levels in the oral cavity optimal; therefore, creating a hostile environment for cavity-causing bacteria.
Protein-rich nuts
Known by most vegetarians, nuts are the best alternative to meat and dairy products. While all nuts include a number of vitamins and minerals, the ones that represent the greatest source of proteins are walnuts, almonds and pistachios.
Water
Even though we drink it every day, few actually realize just how much plain water does for our oral health. From keeping gums hydrated and stimulating saliva to washing away bacteria that can cause gingivitis, bad breath and other dental issues, drinking water is by far the simplest way to maintain oral health!