DURING YOUR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT, we know you hear a lot from our team about the importance of brushing and flossing. But there are other things (we tend to talk less about) that can really assist you in maintaining the health of your teeth so that when your orthodontic treatment concludes, your smile will be drop-dead gorgeous.
Eating Right Helps Fend Off Plaque, Gingivitis, And Periodontal Disease
Your tooth enamel is your smile’s first defense against decay. When your enamel becomes damaged (or erodes) you become more prone to tooth sensitivity and cavities. Your diet can have a lot to do with replenishing those things in your body that help strengthen tooth enamel. Calcium is one of those things. Also, foods rich in vitamin D (like salmon) allow you to better absorb the calcium that healthy teeth need.
“Super-Smile” Foods That May Surprise You
- Broccoli – Broccoli has been shown to create an acid-resistant teeth “shield”.
- Onions – Onions have properties that fight bacteria in your mouth.
- Kiwi (Vitamin C) – The little fuzzy guys are packed with more Vitamin C than any other fruit. A lack of Vitamin C can break down the collagen network in your gums, making them tender and more susceptible to bacteria and gum disease.
- Celery – Celery is like an edible tooth-scrubber. Because of its fibrous material, it massages gums, cleans teeth, and encourages saliva production (a major plus).
- Other Crunchy Veggies – Other crunchy vegetables and fruits like apples or carrots are also great for your smile.
- Quinoa (pronounced “KEEN-wah”) – This little grain is loaded with minerals and vitamins that support and reinforce your teeth.
- Shiitaki Mushrooms – These yummy mushrooms contain a sugar called Lentinan that helps prevent mouth bacteria from growing.
- Sesame Seeds – Sesame seeds help your teeth in two ways. First, they act as little scrubbers, clearing up plaque on your teeth. Second, they supply lots of calcium.
Awesome, Downloadable Recipe eBook
Wondering how you’re going to work teeth-friendly foods into your daily routine and family meals? Here’s a fantastic resource. The downloadable eBook below combines know-how from a gourmet cook, a nutritionist, and a cosmetic dentist to feature gourmet recipes using the super-smile foods listed above (and many others). Enjoy!
Stay tuned to our orthodontic blog for more great ideas to help keep your mouth healthy. We always love hearing from you too. Contact us any time you have questions—regardless of the subject. We’ll get back to you right away. You can also always comment below, or send us a direct message from our Facebook page. By the way, you can click on the image below to watch a video from Colgate that contains additional information about the relationship between eating a balanced diet, and your oral health:
