Foods that aid dental health

Dental health is important to the body's overall functioning, and nutrition plays a very big role in this. When it comes to teeth, you really are what you eat. If our eyes are the windows to the soul, our teeth and gums are the window to our body. If we don't take care of our teeth and gums, we risk tooth decay and even bone loss. Meanwhile, the state of our teeth and gums can often signal various health problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sinus infection, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, irritable bowel disease, gastroesophageal reflux, etc. In fact, dentists can sometimes diagnose these problems before your physician.
Want to know what to eat to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong? Then chew on this.
Foods for Optimum Oral Health
. Calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat or fat-free milk, yoghurt and cheese, fortified soy drinks and tofu, salmon, almonds and dark green leafy vegetables help promote strong teeth and bones.
. Phosphorous - found in eggs, fish, lean meat, dairy, nuts and beans - is good for strong teeth.
. Vitamin C promotes gum health and also helps combat inflammation, so eat plenty of citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, potatoes and spinach.
What to eat
A whole food diet, with lots of lean protein and fresh vegetables and fruits, is recommended. Avoid most processed foods, especially those that are high in simple sugars. So, when you are standing in the grocery aisle, you still need to know what actual food to buy. Here is a list of few foods, nutrients and/or supplements that play a significant role in oral health:
Cheese
If you are one of those people who love cheese, you now have another reason to enjoy this tasty treat. A study published in the May/June 2013 issue of the journal of the American Academy of General Dentistry found that eating cheese raised the pH in the subjects' mouths and lowered their risk of tooth decay. Cheese also contains calcium and protein, which strengthen tooth enamel.
Leafy greens
They are full of vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Greens such as kale and spinach also promote oral health. They are high in calcium, which builds teeth's enamel. They also contain folic acid, a type of vitamin B that has numerous health benefits, including treating gum disease in pregnant women.
Carrots
Like apples, carrots are crunchy and full of fibre. Eating a handful of raw carrots at the end of the meal increases saliva production in your mouth, which reduces risk of cavities. Along with being high in fibre, carrots are a great source of vitamin A.
Probiotics
Probiotics may help to reduce gingivitis and plaque accumulation. Bacteria in fermented foods might suppress the growth of pathogens in the oral cavity. One study showed that consuming fermented dairy was associated with less periodontal disease. Probiotics from any source could be helpful in a similar way.
Apple
Fruits, such as apples, might be sweet, but they are also high in fibre and water. The very act of eating an apple produces saliva in your mouth, which rinses away bacteria and food particles. The fibrous texture of the fruit also stimulates the gums. Pack either a whole apple or apple slices in your lunch to give your mouth a scrubbing at the end of the meal.
Chewing gum with pycnogenol
Gum made with pine bark or sap has been shown to decrease plaque and bleeding gums.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 is a substance similar to vitamins. Our bodies need it to produce energy and it is found in every cell. Deficiencies may play a role in the development of periodontal disease.
Cranberries
Cranberries and other foods rich in anthocyanins (such as blueberries, red cabbage, eggplant peel, black rice and raspberries) may prevent the attachment and colonisation of pathogens on host tissues (including teeth). Some studies even show that cranberry extract-infused mouthwash improves dental health!
Green Tea
Polyphenols have been known to reduce bacteria in the mouth. Tea also tends to be rich in flouride, which, in turn, is known to strengthen teeth.
Fluoride
The mineral fluoride helps to prevent decalcification in our bodies. In other words, it helps us absorb and use calcium effectively. It also acts topically on teeth to promote their surface health. Fluoride in saliva may help to promote remineralisation of enamel.
Soy
A diet that includes soy may help to reduce periodontal disease.