Smile Bright: Expert Reveals 5 Superfoods For Dental Bliss

Good oral health care is not just about brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Maintaining a nutritious diet can significantly contribute to the well-being of your teeth and gums, aiding in the prevention of more severe dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. But not sure what’s healthy and what’s not? We got in touch with dental expert Dr Rajesh Deep Arora who suggested us top 5 superfoods for healthy teeth and gums.

Yogurt

Yogurt has been a staple in the Indian diet for generations and is highly favoured among those embracing a healthy lifestyle. Dr Rajesh recommends incorporating yogurt into your diet for dental health, as it is a rich source of calcium, promoting tooth strength and improving bone density. Additionally, yogurt diminishes the presence of bacteria causing bad breath by preventing the formation of hydrogen sulfide through its natural probiotics.

Salmon

Calcium (sources of calcium) plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy diet, contributing to various aspects, including brain health. Specifically for dental health, it is essential for safeguarding teeth and gums against diseases. However, the absorption of calcium is contingent on sufficient Vitamin D intake. Dr Rajesh recommends incorporating fatty fish like salmon or mackerel into your diet as an excellent source of Vitamin D. Regular consumption ensures that your gums and teeth fully benefit from the disease-fighting properties of calcium.

Leafy Vegetables

Leafy vegetables such as spinach,(spinach savouries) kale, and lettuce are abundant in Folic acid, a variant of Vitamin B known for its role in combatting gum diseases. Kale stands out as a particularly nutrient-packed option beneficial for dental health. Integrating leafy greens into your daily diet contributes to oral cleanliness, stimulates saliva production for digestion and hydration, and adds fibre to your meals. These vegetables, being low in calories, can easily be incorporated into salads, soups, and smoothies.

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Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables rich in fibre, such as celery, carrots, and apples, along with those high in water content like salad greens, are excellent choices for promoting healthy teeth and gums. These foods stimulate saliva production, aiding in diluting the sugar content of food. Additionally, they have a scrubbing effect on teeth, akin to a toothbrush. According to Dr Rajesh, top choices for dental health include carrots, pumpkins, broccoli, and sweet potatoes.

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Water

While water may not be considered a food, it stands as an exceptional beverage for overall well-being. Maintaining oral hydration, water efficiently rinses away lingering food particles, preventing issues like bad breath, cavities, and tooth erosion. Consistent sips of water between meals play a crucial role in creating an optimal environment for saliva production, essential for initiating the digestion process. In essence, water is not just a drink but a vital component for oral and digestive health.

Nuts

Almonds and various nuts such as cashews, pistachios, and walnuts are like small powerhouses packed with essential micronutrients like zinc, potassium, vitamin E, calcium, protein, and fibre. Almonds, specifically, contain Arginine, an amino acid known to lower the risk of cavities. While Dr Rajesh advocates for nuts as healthy, low-calorie snacks, dentists endorse them for their ability to stimulate saliva production, strengthen the jawline, and enhance prevention against gum diseases.

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