General Dentistry Surprising Facts: Dark Chocolate and Other Foods That Are Good for Teeth

The field of general dentistry is a large one, but one thing most dentists can agree on is that there are foods that are good for your teeth and some that are more likely to cause harm. Gum disease, tooth decay and other common dental problems can start or be accelerated by the foods you eat. Consumers can better protect their teeth and avoid dental procedures by eating the right foods and removing those that are harmful.

Foods that improve your teeth

Dark chocolate

Chocolate can make almost anything better, but did you know it can also help your teeth? Dark chocolate contains more than 300 natural chemicals and is known to be one of the more complex foods consumers eat. Some professionals in the general dentistry field believe that dark chocolate is more effective than fluoride when it comes to fighting plaque, tooth decay and cavities. Obviously, dark chocolate should not replace brushing, flossing or fluoride, but adding a little to your diet may strengthen your teeth.

Yogurt

Yogurt has extensive amounts of protein and calcium, which are both important for the mouth. It also contains probiotics, which are helpful bacteria. The good bacteria can crowd out the bad bacteria and help you avoid cavities. Yogurt is healthier and better for your teeth when it has little to no sugar.

Apples

To keep your teeth healthy, the American Dental Association suggests avoiding most sweet foods, but apples are the exception to the rule. High in water and fiber, apples help to stimulate the salivary glands to increase saliva, which washes away food particles and bacteria. The fruit’s fibrous texture can also help to stimulate the gums. Apples are good to eat when you cannot brush or floss your teeth but you want that fresh, clean feeling.

Celery

If you are looking for something crunchy and low-calorie to snack on that is also good for your teeth, celery may be a good bet. Celery scrapes away bacteria and food particles from your teeth and can act like a natural toothbrush. This vegetable also contains lots of vitamins C and A, antioxidants that improve gum health overall. Top celery with cream cheese or peanut butter and you have a perfect snack.

Cheese

Did you know that eating cheese can lower your risk of tooth decay? A 2013 study found that ingesting more cheese can raise the pH in the mouth. Because cheese requires a bit of chewing, many believe that this increases saliva production. It also helps strengthen tooth enamel with large amounts of protein and calcium.

Carrots

The common theme here is that many crunchy foods are good for your teeth, and carrots are no exception. They are filled with fiber and reduce cavity risk by stimulating saliva production. Carrots are also an ideal source of vitamin A.

Conclusion

What you eat can directly affect your mouth. With this knowledge, you are armed and prepared to improve the state of your gums and teeth simply by changing a few things in your diet. When you improve your teeth on your own, general dentistry visits are much more pleasant.

Are you considering general dentistry in the Fort Lee area? Get more information at https://fortleefamilydental.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist.