Happy New Year from everyone here at Bowen Legacy Dental! We are so grateful for all of our wonderful patients. Around this time of year, many people are looking for healthful resolutions. When it comes to your smile, not all foods are equal! By taking care of your teeth, you’re also caring for your digestion, respiratory system, brain, and heart. If you’re interested in nourishing your body and promoting a healthy smile, we have suggestions! Here are some foods to promote oral health and overall wellness this year.
Dairy products
For those who eat dairy, you’re in luck! Dairy products are great for your teeth. Foods like cheese, yogurt, and milk are rich in calcium, phosphorus, and a protein called casein. These minerals strengthen your teeth and have a remineralizing effect on enamel. You can also find probiotics in many of your favorite dairy products. Probiotics help promote healthy bacteria and can neutralize cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. To ensure the best smile-friendly results, stick to low- or no-sugar yogurts. If you love something sweet, you can always add something delicious, like Bowen’s Backyard Honey!
Carrots and celery
Did you know these two crunchy veggies are often called nature’s toothbrushes? While they are no substitute for your regular dental hygiene routine, adding these raw veggies into your diet can promote a healthy mouth. Because both carrots and celery are crunchy and made of mostly water, they clean your teeth when eating and can even clear away other debris. As a bonus, carrots are loaded with smile-protecting keratin and vitamin A, while celery contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
Leafy greens
While you may hear that leafy greens are the pinnacle of health foods from every doctor, nutritionist, and influencer, these are some of the best foods for your teeth as well! Greens are high in folic acid and other vitamins and minerals that strengthen your teeth. In addition, fibrous foods like leafy greens have also been linked to improved periodontal health, a key component for whole-body wellness.
Apples and pears
While many fruits have a higher sugar content that might seem oppositional to “mouth-healthy” foods, fruits like apples and pears are very beneficial to your teeth. They hold a high volume of water, and these fruits promote healthy saliva production while being loaded with vitamins! Just remember to rinse with water after enjoying these fruits, and don’t brush your teeth immediately after eating.
Nuts
An unexpectedly powerful dental health food are nuts, which are packed with calcium and phosphorus, minerals that leave your teeth healthy and strong. Chewy nuts also help stimulate saliva production as you eat them, which can neutralize acids in the mouth. Some great options full of vitamins and minerals include almonds, Brazil nuts, and cashews. Which is your favorite?
Start your journey to a healthier you
Are you surprised by any of our picks? Here at Bowen Legacy Dental, we prioritize your overall wellness—starting with a smile. For more information about smile-friendly tips or to book your first appointment for the new year, please call us at 614-459-2300.
