Your toothbrush and floss pack a lot of punch against cavities. But did you know that snacking on certain foods can also protect your teeth? That’s right. There are foods, besides those loaded with healthful omega-3s, that can benefit your mouth and teeth in big ways.
And, these cavity-fighting food choices may surprise you.
1. Broccoli.
A 2010 lab-based study in The European Journal of Dentistry showed that after being exposed to an acidic drink like cola, enamel erodes half as quickly when exposed to broccoli beforehand. Researchers explain that the iron in broccoli may help form a protective acid-resistant film on teeth.
2. Pears.
Many fruits, like lemons, limes, oranges, and most berries, are actually quite bad for your teeth because they’re high in acid. Pears, on the other hand, are terrific for them.
A South African study measured the acidity of plaque and found it became less acidic after eating a pear. Not only do they have a high water content—which helps dilute the sugar—but they also stimulate the flow of saliva, buffering your teeth against acid.
3. Cheese.
Calcium is king! Cheese has been shown to strengthen your teeth and protect them against staining.
Here’s how it works: Excessive acid in your mouth can cause erosion of your enamel, which can lead to sensitivity, pain, and darker teeth. But eating cheese before a glass of wine, a sip of cola, or a bite of a tomato can help neutralize that acid.
4. Sugarless gum.
The benefits of chewing sugarless gum is actually nothing new. Gum chewing helps dislodge food particles that become lodged between your teeth. Just make sure to choose a type like Trident that has the sugar substitute xylitol. Unlike other sugar substitutes, xylitol can’t be broken down into an acid by bacteria in your mouth.
Want some more diet tips for good dental health? Read the following:
The Mega Oral Benefits of Omega-3s
