Daily brushing and flossing are essential to a healthy smile, but nutrition has an effect on your dental health too.

Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods within your diet helps to promote healthy teeth and gums. Always aim for balance when it comes to planning your diet. You can do this by making sure your overall diet includes fruits, vegetables, protein foods, grains and dairy. This provides essential nutrients for optimum oral health as well as overall health.

Below are some foods, vitamins and minerals to promote optimum oral health:

Calcium-Rich Foods

Eating foods such as low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese all help to promote strong teeth and bones. Other foods that are high sources of calcium include tofu, canned salmon, almonds and some dark green leafy vegetables.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a mineral found in eggs, fish, lean meat, dairy, nuts and beans. Its purpose is to help keep your teeth strong to avoid potential damage.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C does a great job in promoting gum health. Try to get the vitamin from eating various sources, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, potatoes and spinach.

Whole Foods First

Get the nutrients mentioned above from whole foods versus processed foods. Unless you have a known deficiency, supplements should not be necessary to achieve balance in your diet and promote oral health.

Keep in mind that if you’re a chronic dieter, have had a specific surgery or hold a certain health condition, deficiencies are always more likely. Check with your doctor to be certain before making any major dietary changes.

Fluoride

The mineral fluoride helps to prevent decalcification in our bodies by helping us absorb and use calcium effectively. It also acts as a topical agent on teeth to promote their surface health. Fluoride in saliva may help to promote remineralization of enamel. You can get increased fluoride in your diet, simply by drinking more tap water. Getting enough fluoride is important when it comes to preventing cavities.

Maintaining Your Oral Health At Home

By applying the above changes to your overall diet, you can give your teeth a boost and improve your overall health. If you have any questions or would like to book your next dental appointment in Burlington, contact our team today.