The foods we eat are very important to health only some of them are the main cause of the occurrence of cavities. The question is, what are the foods that promote healthy teeth and those that damage it? The answer is in this article!
How does food affect teeth?
Like the rest of the body, teeth need specific nutrients to stay healthy. Foods rich in calcium, vitamins A and D, phosphorus and fiber are all important for strengthening and protecting teeth. Foods that generate saliva and need to chew are also beneficial because they help rid teeth of stains and prevent cavities.
But not all foods and drinks are suitable for teeth. Some may weaken the enamel of these, promote tooth decay or are simply harmful to teeth.
So, what are the best and worst foods for your teeth?
Best food for your teeth
Celery
Celery and other crunchy foods require chewing longer, producing more saliva. The production of saliva is very important because it acts on the blood circulation of your mouth and keeps the tissues healthy. It also acts as a mouthwash, eliminating food particles in teeth and gums and helping to fight cavities.
One of the benefits of celery is its rough texture, it does a double job by slightly cleaning the surface of the tooth while you chew. If you do not like celery, carrots, cucumbers and other crunchy vegetables also do the trick.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds contain vitamins and minerals that are very beneficial to the teeth, such as calcium, vitamin A, fiber and phosphorus. Chia seeds are also very easy to integrate into your diet.
Coconut oil
In addition to cooking, hydration and other uses of coconut oil, this oil is extremely useful for maintaining good dental health. A gargle with a tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for 10 to 20 minutes (also known as oil pulling) removes bacteria accumulated in the mouth, which helps prevent tooth decay and to create a clean environment where bacteria can not grow.
According to a 2015 Indian study, after seven days of coconut oil mouthwash, participants had a statistically significant reduction in plaque and plate-induced gingivitis. In the 30-day study, the amount of plaque continued to decline, leading researchers to conclude that the coconut oil mouthwash was effective in reducing plaque formation and gingivitis.
Fat fish
Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as wild salmon and sardines, are not only tasty, they are also good for your teeth. These fish are rich in vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus that help protect tooth enamel. In a study conducted by Mansoura University in Egypt, omega-3 fatty acids were found to reduce periodontitis, also known as gum disease.
The worst food for your teeth
Acidic foods
Acids in citrus fruits erode enamel and cause irreversible damage. Lemon juice and grapefruit juice seem to be the worst aggressors in teeth, but according to a study by the University of Rochester, researchers found that orange juice reduced enamel hardness by 84%.
It is better to eat the citrus juices quickly, and then rinse your mouth, instead of taking the time and giving the acids more possibilities to make an effect on the teeth.
White bread
First, white bread contains empty calories and refined carbohydrates, but it is also a danger to the teeth. The remains of the bread stick together between the teeth, thus inviting the bacteria. And after chewing, the bread's enzymes are converted into sugar, which is more damaging to dental health.
Sports drinks
According to Dr. Peter Alldritt, Chair of the Oral Health Committee of the Australian Dental Association, like soft drinks, sports drinks contain sugar, some of which contain up to 13 teaspoons, which gnaws teeth .
Pickles
The vinegar in the pickles, which gives them the tangy flavor we like, is also dangerous for the teeth. According to a study of more than 2,300 students in the UK, gherkins use teeth more than any other food.
