Say NO to Plaque

Eating healthy is important for your entire body, including your teeth.

You’ve heard over and over about the basics of maintain good oral hygiene: brush twice a day, floss daily, visit your dentist twice a year and stay on top of orthodontic appointments. However, in between all of that an important way to keep your mouth healthy you must get foods that help main oral health.

When you eat foods that are not good for your teeth, like sugary foods, you are aiding the production of bacteria formally known as plaque. Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains millions of bacteria. The bacteria in plaque cause tooth decay and gum disease if they are not removed regularly through brushing and flossing.

Here are some healthy foods to add to your diet to protect your teeth.

Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables:
These foods stimulate saliva flow which is the best defense your teeth has against cavities and gum disease.

Black and Green Tea:
Both teas contain polyphenols which can suppress or kill bacteria that could attack the teeth.

Foods with fluoride:
This includes drinking water and products you prepare with water like powder sugar-free juices and soups. Commercial prepared poultry, seafood and cereal also provide fluoride nutrients.

Dairy products: 
The calcium in dairy products helps put back minerals your teeth may have lost due to other foods.

Remember everything that goes into your mouth has an effect on your teeth, just make sure it is a positive effect.