Your dentist will tell you that your eating habits have a strong connection to your oral health. When you choose to eat for your teeth, you’re doing your chompers—and yourself—a huge favor. At C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry in Lorain, Ohio, the goal is to improve the health of your teeth and gums—and that includes coaching patients to eat healthy.

It’s often said you are what you eat—and when it comes to your teeth, the correlation is obvious. Sugary treats, for example, can cause cavities, and caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee can produce stubborn stains. But there are also some foods out there that may improve your oral health. Here the family dentist shares a few superfoods to add to your diet.

Five Superfoods That Will Improve Your Dental Health

1. Wild Salmon 

Your teeth depend on calcium to protect them, and in order to absorb calcium, you need vitamin D. That’s why wild salmon is such a strong addition to your diet. It’s rich in vitamin D, and it also contains little to no mercury.

2. Fibrous Foods 

Foods like carrots and celery are rich in fiber and are great for your oral health. That’s because fiber boosts the production of saliva, which helps prevent cavities from developing. And raw produce is especially good for reducing bad breath, because its crunchy texture helps eliminate those little bits of food that may be stuck between your teeth.

3. Dairy 

Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, contain high quantities of calcium, phosphates, and vitamin D. These minerals are essential to your oral health. They protect tooth enamel, and they can even replace lost minerals in your teeth. With so many dairy options available, it’s easy to include this superfood in your diet.

4. Strawberries 

They make a delicious dessert, and strawberries also serve as natural teeth whiteners. They contain malic acid, which helps remove the surface stains that give your teeth that less-than-sparkly appearance. They also make an excellent substitute for cavity-causing, sugary desserts.

5. Apples 

Not only are apples fibrous, they’re also packed with water. This combination produces a lot of saliva in your mouth, which in turn helps flush out those particles that cause bad breath. Some dentists consider the apple a natural toothbrush of sorts—it suffices in a pinch when you can’t brush your teeth right away. It can’t hurt that it tastes pretty good, too!

Your dentist can provide you with more dietary tips to help steer you in the direction for better oral health. If you’re concerned about your teeth or just need to make a dentist appointment, get in touch with C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry. For more information, visit the family dentist’s website or call (440) 960-5200 today.