Oral hygiene is so important – one of the first activities parents teach little kids is how to brush their teeth. If you’re not flossing regularly, you might want to start there on your quest for a healthy smile. But if you’re a diligent wielder of dental floss and still have tooth sensitivity or other oral health issues, you may want to look at your food choices.
Foods That Harm Your Teeth
Sugar is a culprit, as are high-carb and acidic foods, so it’s best to avoid these. But if you can’t, here’s a pro tip—don’t brush your teeth too soon after consuming these enamel-weakening foods and beverages. Going in with a toothbrush causes further damage in this environment, so you’re better off drinking water and waiting half an hour.
Nutrition That Supports Oral Health
We recommend getting your vitamins and minerals from whole food sources, but you can also use a supplement to plug any gaps in your diet.
Foods That Contain Calcium
Got milk? Dairy products contain calcium, a mineral that’s integral to strong teeth and bones. Other sources of calcium include:
- Canned sardines
- Leafy greens
- Nuts and seeds
Milk and breakfast cereals are also fortified with vitamin D, which is vital for oral health.
Foods That Contain Vitamin C
Back in the day, sailors who couldn’t access fresh produce for months would often develop bleeding gums and succumb to scurvy. Their bodies desperately needed vitamin C, which is found in:
- Citrus fruits
- Bell peppers
- Berries
- Tomatoes
- Kale
- Cruciferous veggies
- Potatoes
Foods That Contain Vitamin A
Saliva is essential to sound oral health. It sweeps away food particles that can cause tooth decay and kills harmful bacteria. Vitamin A assists with saliva production. You’ll find it in orange-colored fruits and veggies and eggs and fish.
Foods That Contain Vitamin K2
Milk and cheese from grass-fed cows have significant amounts of vitamin K2. This vitamin metabolizes calcium, a key mineral in your bones and teeth. The chlorophyll in green pastures activates the enzyme that converts vitamin K1 to K2. Humans don’t have this enzyme, so we need to get it from dietary sources, many of which also contain phosphorous, which is vital for healthy teeth. These foods include:
- Beef
- Eggs
- Liver
- Natto
- Gouda cheese
Foods That Are High In Omega 3s
Omega-3 fatty acids can keep gum disease and periodontitis at bay and ensure your teeth stay firmly in place. Fish like mackerel, tuna, and salmon are high in Vitamin D, which prevents cavities and inflammation, and omega-3s. The following foods are also rich in omega-3s:
- Chia seeds
- Flax seeds
- Walnuts
- Soybeans
Synergy Oral Surgery Center in Reseda Can Help
Eating a balanced diet improves your oral health. But if you have impacted wisdom teeth, or get injured, for example, you might need surgical interventions. Dr. Polyakov and the Synergy team treat patients with empathy and skill. Contact us for more info about our dental services in California.
