San Francisco and Marin CA
In a perfect world, brushing and flossing would be enough to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Although these two factors are crucial to your teeth, you may be overlooking the most important one: your diet. Some studies suggest that the foods and beverages we consume and don’t consume may have a significant impact on our dental health and help us avoid developing major dental issues down the road. Therefore, our Marin family dentists at Glen Park Dental share on the blog today the best superfoods for a super healthy smile so that you can boost your oral health and reduce your dental expenses.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as mackerel and salmon are excellent sources of vitamin D, which plays an important role in the body’s ability to absorb calcium. If we do not obtain enough calcium in our diet, we are more likely to have difficulties with our normal tooth health.
Dairy
Cheese, yogurt, and milk are examples of dairy products that are rich in a variety of nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, as well as vitamins A and B12. It has been shown that casein, a protein that can be found in a variety of dairy products, collaborates with phosphate and calcium to construct a protein film that assists in the protection of the enamel of our teeth.
Green Tea
Instead of reaching for a sugary beverage, why not try some green tea? Green tea’s polyphenols have been shown to lower saliva acidity, which may help prevent cavities. Our Marin family dentists state that green tea’s polyphenols may also inhibit or even kill the bacteria that cause plaque.
Mushrooms
Because of their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, shiitake mushrooms have the potential to contribute to the overall health of a person’s gums and teeth, hence reducing the likelihood of developing cavities.
Sesame Seeds
As a source of calcium, sesame seeds have the potential to support the development and maintenance of healthy jawbone tissue. Consuming these little but powerful seeds may help increase your body’s calcium levels, which is necessary for healthy teeth and bones.
What foods should I avoid for a super smile?
You may already know that high sugar content foods and beverages can be damaging to your smile. Additionally, foods with an increased carbohydrate count can also cause smile damage. As harmful bacteria access the sugars in starches from carbohydrates, they can feed and reproduce quickly, which puts your oral health at risk for gum disease and cavities. Our Bay Area family dentists also advise patients to stay away from highly acidic foods and beverages like sour candies and energy drinks. The acids break down irreplaceable tooth enamel and may cause cavities or other tooth damage.
Family Dentists in Marin, Oakland, and San Francisco, California
Most people eat and drink the foods and beverages they love and don’t give their oral health a second thought. Even though there are many sweet foods and drinks available, it’s best to choose an option with no sugar, such as water. Not only is water sugar-free, but it can rehydrate your mouth and balance natural pH levels. If you have a question about the foods and drinks you consume and their impact on your oral health or you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning, please contact our San Francisco family dental office, Glen Park Dental, at (415) 585-1500 or contact us online to request an appointment today.
