These 5 Foods Can Be Good or Bad for Your Teeth, Depending on How You Eat Them

Photo by Lesly Juarez on Unsplash

Many factors go into maintaining dental health, and practices inside and outside the dentist’s office create good dental hygiene. Different foods can boost dental health and reduce the chances of tooth decay or gum disease.

However, even foods that have health benefits can present dangers to teeth if they are eaten the wrong way. Here are 5 foods that can benefit your teeth or damage them, depending on how you eat them.

1. Whole Grains

The kind of carbohydrates that people consume can have negative or positive effects on dental health. Grains that are simple carbohydrates can adhere to teeth after a meal is over. That means that foods like white bread, some pasta and white rice can lead to tooth decay.

However, complex carbohydrates, like whole wheat products, can be a better option that provides fiber, vitamins and minerals. These also develop bacteria more slowly than their simple counterparts.

2. Green and Black Tea

Tea with green or black leaves contain substances that prevent plaque build-up. Drinking tea can also keep bacteria from affecting your gums or producing cavities because it holds harmful enzymes at bay.

However, many people take their tea with sugar, which causes dental decay or erosion. The fuel for tooth-damaging bacteria and acids is sugar. Sugar converts into lactic acid to break down the teeth.

3. Fruits and Veggies Packed with Fiber

Fibrous foods get saliva flowing which defends against cavities and the threat of acidic substances. Also, fruits with vitamin C can help collagen production to keep gums healthy.

Periodontitis is a disease in the gums that also affects the teeth, so strong and clean gums protect overall dental health. Vegetables like bell peppers, spinach and broccoli also are high in vitamin C.

Another vitamin present in many fruits and vegetables, vitamin A, can maintain tooth enamel and nourish tooth-bearing bones. Avoid acidic fruits and vegetables or immediately brush your teeth after eating them.

4. Nuts for Nutrients

Nuts are a healthy source of nutrients, antioxidants and protein — and they even fortify teeth. Both magnesium and potassium help strengthen bones and teeth, and almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts and pistachios have high levels of each.

Be careful how you snack on nuts, though. If hard shells are hidden and you pop one in your mouth by accident, this can lead to tooth breakage and serious surgeries.

5. Calcium-Rich Dairy

Dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt promote dental health, primarily because they contain calcium. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, and it is more likely that people have too little rather than too much.

Even teeth are comprised of calcium, and the outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, is made of calcium phosphate. So, when people increase the dairy in their diet, they can add extra strength to their dental health.

Dairy foods can also protect teeth from bacteria, and cheese is good for the mouth’s pH levels. This is likely due to the action of chewing and the resulting saliva production, which washes away bacteria.

For lactose intolerant people, soy, fish and beans all have high levels of calcium, too. Sugar in yogurts and other dairy products can contribute to cavities, but sugar-free options are a healthy choice.

A Healthy Diet Impacts Dental Health

When eaten the right way, these foods can strengthen enamel, stimulate saliva production and preserve gums for an overall healthy mouth.

Diet and cleaning both contribute to dental health. With a holistic approach, food choices and dental practices can keep bacteria and disease away.

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