Dr. Vishwas Patil, Head, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Suriya Mother and Child Specialist Hospital, India, emphasized that foods can play a vital role in promoting dental health, as a large portion of people face challenges like tooth decay and gum disease.
Dr. Patel said: These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that contribute to strong teeth and healthy gums, and reduce the risk of tooth decay, according to the Indian Express newspaper.
From crunchy vegetables that act as a natural toothbrush to nutrient-rich fruits that support gum health, discover the foods and drinks that can contribute to a bright, healthy smile.
water
Water is one of the most important and overlooked beverages, as it hydrates the oral cavity while also flushing out all the food debris from the mouth. Water also creates an ambient environment inside the mouth to produce saliva, Dr. Patel said. It is recommended that an individual consume 3 liters of water daily to stay hydrated and prevent tooth decay.
Leafy vegetables
All leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and lettuce and root vegetables such as carrots and celery are very rich in folic acid – a type of B vitamin that helps fight gum disease.
Apple and strawberry
Apples are a vital source of fiber and water that stimulate saliva production. Moreover, the natural sugars found in apples help neutralize harmful acids in the mouth. According to Dr. Patel, strawberries and cranberries also act as natural enamel whiteners because they are loaded with malic acid and prevent plaque formation.
He added that guava and amla (gooseberries) are rich sources of vitamin C, which helps produce collagen, which keeps gums strong and healthy.
Nuts
Nuts like almonds, cashews, pistachios, and walnuts are full of micronutrients. Almonds contain arginine, an amino acid that helps reduce the risk of cavities and increase saliva production to better prevent gum disease.
sea food
Seafood, especially fish, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce gingivitis and speed up the healing process.
Green tea
This amazing nutrient-rich drink with polyphenols and catechins plays a huge role in reducing the risk of gum disease. Green tea also acts as an additional source of fluoride and helps prevent bad breath.
Legumes
Legumes are real nutritional powerhouses. Chickpeas, black chana, etc. are very rich in folic acid, magnesium, zinc and iron – which helps in strengthening the enamel and reducing the chances of tooth decay.
Milk and cheese
Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, contain casein, a protein that repairs and builds enamel. Milk also contains phosphorus, another nutrient that protects enamel, while cheese contains phosphate, which helps balance the pH level in the mouth.
Dr. Patel stressed that brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for checkups remain crucial.
2024-01-07 04:49:23
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