3 Essential Foods and Beverages That Benefit Your Oral Health
Posted on: 4 April 2019
Most people understand how consuming excessive amounts of candy, soda, and sugary foods and beverages can harm your teeth and gums, especially if you do not brush properly. However, you may not realize there are foods and drinks that can benefit your mouth, teeth, and gums. If you are ready to start eating and drinking your way to improved oral health, here are a few essential items that dentists recommend including in your daily diet.
Water
Many people consider water boring, but this simple drink can be incredibly beneficial to your mouth.
Consuming the right amount of water will keep your body hydrated, ensuring proper blood flow through not only your body but also your mouth and gum tissue. This improved blood circulation decreases the risk of inflammation that leads to infections and gum disease.
Water is also a rinsing agent. If you drink water throughout the day, you will be rinsing away food residue, plaque, and other debris from out of your mouth and off your teeth and gums. This will also decrease your risk of plaque buildup, cavities, decay, and gum disease.
Cheese
There is a reason people tell you to say "Cheese!" when smiling to take photos: Cheese can be a great addition to your diet if you want to improve the look and health of your smile.
Cheese increases saliva production in the mouth, which helps reduce the risk of food and plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. This increased saliva also regulates pH levels. The higher the pH levels in the mouth, the less risk of developing cavities.
Consuming cheese each day can actually lower your chances of developing cavities.
Nuts
Incorporating nuts into your daily diet is also smart if you want to improve your physical health and the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums.
Most nuts are loaded in essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus. These minerals strengthen the body's immune system, helping your body and your mouth fight off different illnesses and infections. In addition, they help strengthen your bones and teeth, making them stronger and less likely to break or chip.
Nuts, especially almonds, brazil nuts, and cashews, stimulate saliva production. The more saliva your mouth produces, the better your mouth will be at rinsing away food and plaque.
When you drink plenty of water and eat cheese with a variety of nuts, you can work toward a healthier and more appealing smile.
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