Call us at (615) 297-7597

Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

It’s common to associate healthy teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, but diet plays a very important part in dental health, too. You probably already know that acidic and sugary foods and drinks are bad for teeth, but do you know which foods can really give your child’s oral health a big boost?


18 Great Dietary Suggestions

Although this is not an exhaustive list, it contains 18 foods and beverages that are proven winners in the oral health category:

Fruit

  1. Apples – raw
    Packed with key nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. Naturally abrasive, so they gently scrub and clean teeth surfaces.
  2. Kiwi
    Has one of the highest concentrations of vitamin C.
  3. Oranges
    The least acidic citrus. Famous for vitamin C which makes for stronger blood vessels, less inflammation, and healthier gums.
  4. Pears
    Have a neutralizing effect on acids.
  5. Strawberries
    Packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and malic acid, which acts as a teeth whitener.

Vegetables

  1. Carrots
    Contain lots of the most important minerals and vitamins for your mouth. Like apples, are natural teeth scrubbers.
  2. Celery
    The closest thing to nature’s floss.
  3. Leafy greens – spinach, broccoli, kale
    Rich in calcium, folic acid and many vitamins and minerals that are superheroes for teeth and gums.
  4. Sweet potatoes
    Contain vitamin A, which is essential for tooth enamel and gums.

Dairy

  1. Cheese – hard, aged cheeses are the best options
    Rich in calcium, fights plaque, increases saliva production.
  2. Milk
    Rich in calcium and other minerals, fights plaque and tooth decay.
  3. Yogurt
    Contains calcium, of course, but also probiotics that protect against cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath.

Non-dairy Beverages

  1. Black and Green Tea – unsweetened
    Contains polyphenols that reduce bacteria and toxic products of bacteria in the mouth. Usually rich in fluoride.
  2. Water
    Keeps saliva production levels high which fights tooth decay. Also washes away bacteria.

Meats and Fish

  1. Fish – fatty fishes, wild salmon, tuna
    Rich in minerals and Vitamin D
  2. Meat – beef, pork, fowl
    All meats are packed with vitamins and minerals important to oral health, such as B12, iron, and zinc to name a few.

Snacks

  1. Nuts – especially almonds, Brazil nuts and cashews
    High in antioxidants. Rich in calcium and phosphorus, the building blocks of enamel, which also help to fight bacteria and tooth decay.
  2. Sesame seeds
    High in calcium and very efficient at scrubbing plaque off teeth while you chew them.

Don’t Forget the Basics

Remember to keep a balance – good food and good dental habits. Don’t forget what your child’s dentist recommends for brushing and flossing. At Adams & Seaton Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend a preventive care office visit every 6 months. Learn More.


More About Adams & Seaton Pediatric Dentistry

If you are searching for the top kids dentist Nashville has to offer you’ll find a pediatric dental practice in Adams & Seaton Pediatric Dentistry that provides the highest quality dental care in a relaxed, non-intimidating environment. For additional information or to schedule an appointment please call (615) 297-7597. We look forward to the opportunity to serve your children.