Nutrition and dental health: foods that strengthen teeth
Dental health is a reflection of our overall body condition and well-being, and nutrition plays a crucial role in dental health. It’s common to hear that we should avoid certain foods to prevent cavities, but did you know that there are a variety of foods that can strengthen your teeth and improve your dental health? In this article, we’ll explore how diet impacts dental health and which foods are especially beneficial for maintaining strong teeth.
The relationship between diet and dental health
Our dental health is directly related to nutrition. Every time we eat, the sugars and carbohydrates in our food are converted into acids in our mouths. These acids can attack tooth enamel and, over time, lead to tooth decay. However, some foods contain essential nutrients that can counteract these effects and help repair and strengthen tooth enamel.
Foods that are good for teeth
- Dairy: Dairy products such as cheese, milk and yoghurt are rich in calcium and phosphorus, two minerals essential for strengthening tooth enamel. Calcium, in particular, helps rebuild tooth enamel with the help of phosphates. In addition, yoghurt contains probiotics that benefit gum health by keeping harmful bacteria in check.
- Leafy greens: Vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Not only do these vegetables have high levels of calcium, but they also contain folate, a form of vitamin B that has gum-healthy properties.
- Apples: Although apples are sweet, chewing them stimulates saliva production, which helps reduce tooth decay by reducing bacteria levels in the mouth and washing away food particles. In addition, the fibrous texture of apples stimulates the gums.
- Green tea: Green tea contains polyphenols that interact with plaque-causing bacteria. These compounds prevent bacterial growth and acid production, helping to protect teeth against erosion. In addition, green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help control gingivitis.
- Nuts: almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts are rich in calcium and protein without being high in sugars. Eating nuts stimulates saliva, which can help remineralise teeth and protect enamel.
Tips for a healthy dental diet
- Moderation with sugars and acids: reduce the amount of sugary foods and drinks to limit the exposure of teeth to destructive acids.
- Include variety in your diet: ensure a balanced diet that includes the nutrient-rich food groups that strengthen teeth.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: complement a healthy diet with good brushing and flossing.
By adopting a diet rich in these foods and following good dental hygiene habits, you can ensure that you keep your smile strong and healthy. Dental health depends not only on external care, but also on what nourishes our bodies. Remember, a healthy mouth is a reflection of a healthy body.
Your health is our priority.
Make an appointment at Clinicas Udemax and choose the location that best suits you: Udemax in the outpatient clinics of Policlínica Juaneda, in Arcdental or in Emardental, your clinic in the centre of Palma. For more information, call us on .
