5 Dental-Friendly Foods for a Stronger, Brighter Smile

Orthodontist Dr. Douglas J. Elliott and the dedicated team at Elliott Orthodontics in Merrimack, NH understand that maintaining a healthy smile involves more than just regular brushing and flossing. It also means making thoughtful choices when it comes to your diet. We are firm believers in the power of preventive care. In this blog post, we will introduce you to five dental-friendly foods that can play a crucial role in preventing and even reversing damage to your teeth, ultimately leading to a stronger and brighter smile.

1. Dairy Products: We all know that milk and dairy products are excellent sources of calcium, which is essential for building strong tooth enamel and bones. What you may not know is that dairy products also contain casein, a protein found predominantly in cheese. Recent research suggests that the combination of casein and calcium plays a significant role in stabilizing and repairing tooth enamel. So, next time you’re enjoying a piece of cheese or a glass of milk, know that you’re doing your teeth a favor.
   
   
2. Leafy Vegetables and High Fiber Foods: Not only are leafy vegetables and high fiber foods beneficial for your overall health, but they also contribute to your oral health. When you consume foods like salads, beans, and apples, the act of chewing generates saliva, which helps in washing away food particles and bacteria. Additionally, these foods act as a natural tooth-cleaning agent, scrubbing away plaque and debris as you chew.
   
   
3. Strawberries for Whitening Teeth: Did you know that strawberries can naturally whiten your teeth? Strawberries contain malic acid, which acts as a natural whitening agent. Although they may not replace professional teeth whitening treatments, incorporating strawberries into your diet can help maintain a brighter smile. So, indulge in this delicious fruit while giving your teeth a gentle brightening boost.
   
   
4. Sugarless Gum: Chewing sugarless gum has a surprising dental benefit. When you chew gum, it stimulates saliva production, which aids in washing away harmful acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. Additionally, many sugarless gums are sweetened with xylitol, an alcohol that helps reduce the presence of bacteria in your mouth. However, it’s important to note that chewing gum is not recommended while wearing braces. Once your braces are removed, sugarless gum can be a great tool to help maintain your beautiful new smile.
   
   
5. Good Old-Fashioned Water: Water is often underestimated when it comes to oral health. Drinking water after meals helps wash away food particles, sugar, and acid, preventing them from lingering in your mouth and causing damage to your teeth. 
   
   

By incorporating these dental-friendly foods into your diet, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier smile. Remember, changing your eating habits to support a healthier lifestyle requires effort, but the rewards are well worth it. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an initial complimentary consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.