We’re all are familiar with the phrase “you are what you eat.” But did you know your diet can impact the health of your entire smile?
Recent studies published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology add greater support to the theory that there’s a strong relationship between diet and smiles. Unhealthy diets that are low in protein and vitamins but high in refined carbohydrates have been shown to increase the risk of cavities and gum health. Other studies, like this one conducted by the WHO Collaborating Centre for Nutrition and Oral Health and the Centre for Community Oral Health Programmes highlight that nutrition has an impact on the development of teeth and can even trigger the preconditions that encourage the development of oral cancer.
Given the long term consequences of these preventable diseases, there’s little question as to why so many dentists are now educating patients of all ages on the importance of a healthy diet.
So What Makes a Smile Friendly Diet?
Many studies agree – the best diet for a healthy smile is a balanced one. This means a diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean protein and plenty of water. Smile friendly diets also limit sugar intake, avoiding sticky candies or fruits as well as starchy, carb-heavy foods like potato chips.
So what does this all mean for your day to day life? Here are some of the top foods and drinks our Spokane dental team recommends picking up on your next trip to the grocery store.
Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries are all rich in anthocyanins, which prevent bacteria from attaching to the surface of teeth. Try adding them to a cup of Greek yogurt for a delicious parfait or throwing them into your next salad for a pop of freshness.
Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Craving the crisp of a good potato chip? Get a satisfying and healthy crunch by swapping out chips for celery, snap peas, apples, or carrots at lunch time. These crisp fruits and vegetables help “scrub” away plaque from teeth as you eat them, keeping cavity-causing bacteria at bay.
Dairy
You probably already know how important vitamin D and calcium are for your bones, but were you aware of how important these essential vitamins are for your teeth? Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all excellent ways to strengthen teeth and fight demineralization of tooth enamel. Cheese in particular has also been shown to increase saliva production, which in turn helps wash away plaque and bacteria from teeth.
Leafy Greens
Spinach and kale not only provide your smile with important antioxidants and iron, they also contain high amounts of vitamin A, beta-carotene, and calcium. Each of these vitamins play a unique and important role in protecting the health of the smile and body.
Garlic
Are you a fan of garlic? You’re in luck. This pungent bulb contains allicin, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Allicin helps kill off gum-disease causing bacteria while protecting the good bacteria that resides in your smile.
Lean Protein
Protein is an important building block to every aspect of a healthy lifestyle and your smile is no exception. Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish can all help strengthen teeth and protect your smile.
Get the Full Scoop – Visit Summit Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Today!
At our Spokane dental practice, our team is dedicated to helping patients care for their smiles. This includes choosing a healthy, sustainable diet that promotes good oral and overall health. Whether it’s time for your next teeth cleaning or you have questions about what kind of diet promotes a healthy smile, give us a call! Dr. López and his team are here to help you and your family achieve a beautiful smile.