While you may recognize that eating healthy foods is great for your waistline and bodily health, it’s easy to overlook the fact that nutritious meals can also improve their oral health. Clean, fluoridated water helps to bolster dental enamel, while fruits, vegetables, grains, and even lean proteins improve the health of the oral tissues. Here are three foods dentists recommend for great oral health, and some methods to add them to your diet.

3 Foods Healthy For Your Smile

1. Almonds

Naturally crunchy foods like almonds help to scrub the surfaces of the teeth while you chew, whisking away plaque and tartar. Almonds are also high in protein and calcium without an abundance of natural sugars, fueling great cellular nutrition on a microscopic level. Pack raw almonds with you in your purse or briefcase for a quick pick-me-up, or add slices of almonds to veggies for an added dose of flavor. 

2. Cheese 

There is a reason cheese platters are prized by patients and dentists alike. Cheese contains cultures that crowd out oral bacteria, preventing tooth decay. Additionally, cheese is high in calcium, which supports bone growth. Keep cubed cheese in your refrigerator for a quick snack, or indulge in a slice or two after dinner to neutralize plaque acids. 

3. Salmon

Salmon is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help to support immunity and prevent oral infections. These special acids also reduce inflammation, protecting against periodontal disease. If you are new to fish, try enjoying lox and bagels, or consider eating dried salmon instead of jerky.

A healthy diet is an important component of oral hygiene, but professional care from an experienced dentist is crucial for the health of your teeth as well. Richard J. Mazour D.D.S. in Beatrice, NE, focuses on helping every patient reach their full oral health potential, offering a wide range of state-of-the-art dental treatments and restorative services. To book your next appointment with this trusted dentist, visit his website or call (402) 223­-5109.