Friday, June 21, 2013

The Best Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth





We all want to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. While brushing is key, the foods we eat also impact the health of our mouth and teeth. Below are some recommended foods, drinks, and snacks that essentially help our teeth: 

Milk & cheese: These products often contains loads of calcium, which help to strengthen our teeth and other bones. Dairy products also contain casein, a type of protein, which helps give us energy and strength to our teeth.A variety of  additional products also contain added calcium, such as orange juice. For a special treat, look for chocolate calcium supplements at your health food store. 

Fruits & Vegetables: Vegetables contain fiber, which is also great for your smile. Just make sure to brush after a plateful of spinach! Some fruits, such as raspberries, contain fiber, too. Fibrous fruits and vegetables often take a little longer to chew than non-fiber-dense foods. This process is important because the more we chew, the more saliva we generate. Saliva also helps maintain our teeth. 

Chew This: Speaking of saliva, chewing gum is also a great way to help your teeth. In addition to the generation of protective saliva, chewing gum may be substituted for sugary and salty snacks.Tea and Water: It is important to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. Hydration improves our overall health and also affects what we eat. Aim for drinks with low to little sugar to maintain the best smile. 

Aim to eat and drink a few items a day which directly affect your teeth health. Experiment and try a variety of fruits and vegetables, for instance. Prepare healthy, enjoyable meals and remember to eat and drink for your health!