Food for thought? How about Food for TEETH ?
I’m pretty sure, you’ve had your dentist give you a long list of food you should avoid in order to maintain a good oral hygiene.
Well, here at IDDA, we believe, maintaining and caring for your oral health, doesn’t have to be bland and insipid!
All health conditions, predispose in the oral cavity way before the symptoms start showing physically.
Your mouth is the first point of contact for all nutrients- good or bad, that enter your body.
Here is a list of a few TASTY food items that promote dental health and prevent caries (decay or crumbling of tooth).
1. CHOCOLATES:
A dentist, recommending you chocolates, while promoting oral health, that’s surprising yeah?
Well, we have our reasons.
Chocolates contain cacao. Cacao beans contain a compound, known as flavonoids, which constitutes its main bio active component.
Flavonoids are known to exert a beneficial action on dental tissues.
In addition to this, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cacao can contribute to the maintenance of oral tissue homeostasis.
Cacao extracts exert an inhibitory effect on the adherence, growth and metabolism of oral bacteria, disturbing biofilm (a layer of microorganisms, bacteria, that adhere to the surface of the tooth) formation.
But, before you start savoring the goodness of all the chocolates without a care in the world,
Remember, NOT ALL CHOCOLATES. Opting for dark chocolate that is high in cacao and low in sugar is the way to go.
Chocolate isn’t the enemy, sugar is.
2. CHEESE:
Don’t just say cheese for pictures, Relish it too.
Cheese is high in protein and calcium, which naturally strengthen teeth and bones. Cheese also helps raise the pH level of the mouth.
A higher pH level, means the mouth is not in an acidic state, and hence the oral cavity is not prone to being susceptible to dental decay, halitosis (bad breath) and periodontitis (gum diseases).
In simpler words, The chewing required while eating cheese produces saliva, which helps rinse out the mouth.
So please go ahead and add those extra slices of cheese in your burgers, call for the cheesiest fries,
But remember to floss later, and to keep a check on your cholesterol levels, obviously.
3. Yogurt:
Similar to cheese, Yogurt too is high in protein and calcium.
Cavity forming bacteria thrive and multiply in an acidic environment. Yogurts neutralize the effect of acids creating a tooth friendly atmosphere in the mouth.
The probiotic lactobacilli, in yogurt helps to keep the bad bacteria away from the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of any periodontal diseases.
Yogurts are a fantastic option from satisfying your sweet tooth to maintaining good oral health.
This delicious treat can keep your teeth dazzling white and healthy. It’s a great time to hit the yogurt aisle at a store.
But remember, Any addition of sugar is bound to produce acid in your mouth.
Non-flavoured Greek yogurts are the most tooth friendly. If you crave for a sweet yogurt, add the natural sweetness of a fresh fruit or use a sugar-free.
4. TEA (Green and black):
Here for the TEA? Let’s go!!
Antioxidants in green tea have potent bacteria-killing properties, and drinking green tea also lowers the acidity of saliva and dental plaque.
Halitosis (bad breath) is caused mainly by volatile sulfur compounds.
In a study performed to research about the same, green tea showed the largest reduction in these concentration of these compounds.
The best way to get the catechins and other flavonoids in tea is to drink it freshly brewed. The recommended consumption is three to four cups of tea a day.
Therefore, it was concluded that green tea was very effective in reducing oral malodor temporarily because of its disinfectant and deodorant activities.
5. FISH:
Let’s cater to the meat lovers as well.
Seafood, including fish and shellfish, is a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are not only excellent for heart health but also promote healthy gums.
Additionally, seafood is a fantastic source of vitamin D, which is vital for the absorption of calcium. Calcium, as we all know, is the building block of teeth and bones, ensuring they remain strong and healthy.
A diet rich in seafood tantalizes not only your taste buds but nourishes your oral health.
From strengthening tooth enamel to reducing the risk of gum disease, to helping lubricate the mouth and stimulate saliva production as fish contains healthy fats, to o helping speed up the tissue repair and healing post a dental surgery, the oral health benefits of seafood are potentially remarkable.
As a nutrient-rich dietary choice, seafood is an excellent way to incorporate essential vitamins and minerals into your regimen.
Remember, while seafood offers incredible advantages for oral health, it’s essential to maintain a well-rounded oral hygiene routine.
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are equally vital in ensuring your smile stays bright and your teeth remain strong.
So, go ahead, enjoy the bounties of the sea, and let your smile shine with the radiance of good health!
And while you’re at it, why not schedule an appointment for cleaning and a checkup?
We all know that we are what we eat, and this extends to the health of our teeth. Consuming a diet that is high in fibrous fruits and vegetables, calcium, and protein, and low in processed sugary foods is one of the simplest ways to promote oral health.
Drink lots of water to support healthy teeth. Water keeps your mouth clean, contains zero sugar, fights dry mouth, and has no calories.
Protecting your teeth doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Make smart choices about what you put into your body and your teeth will thank you.
