March is National Nutrition Month, so let’s discuss foods that are healthy for your teeth.
Foods like meat, poultry, fish, milk and eggs that are rich in protein and good sources of phosphorus. Milk, cheese, plain yogurt, tofu, almonds and leafy-greens, are high in calcium and other nutrients. The minerals in both these types of food play a critical role in dental health, by rebuilding and protecting tooth enamel.
Vegetables and fruits are good for a healthy smile since they are high in fiber and water. Foods high in water content offset the sugars they contain. These foods also help to increase saliva production, which washes acids and food particles away from teeth and protects teeth from decay. Plus, some contain vitamin C (crucial for gums and quick healing) and vitamin A (key nutrient in increasing tooth enamel).
Water – particularly fluoridated water – is the most tooth-friendly beverage, hands down.