While most people understand that certain foods are detrimental to their oral health, it is hard to pinpoint the foods that improve your teeth and gums. However, you can bolster your diet with the right items to improve your next visit to the dentist. Here are three foods that can enhance your smile. 

Foods That Promote Oral Health 

1. Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, sunflower and pumpkin seeds are crunchy enough that they provide a gentle scrubbing effect to the teeth, helping to rub away plaque and other food particles. Additionally, they are low in carbohydrates, so they won’t fuel decay-causing oral bacteria the same way starchy foods will. They are also high in the amino acid arginine which has been shown to disrupt dental plaque formation. So eat more nuts and seeds, consider buying them in bulk, roasting them in your oven, and packing them in small plastic bags for a quick healthy snack on-the-go. 

2. Green Tea 

Research has shown that green tea catechins help to inhibit the growth of bacteria that promote gum disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis.  You can also reduce oral inflammation and prevent tooth decay by drinking green tea. This effect is due to compounds in green tea that mimic those used by dentists, such as fluoride, and help the teeth to remineralize. Consider consuming green tea instead of sugar-laden varieties like Chai to boost your oral health. 

3. Sugar-Free Gum

Although it may seem counter-intuitive, chewing sugar-free gum stimulates salivary flow and has been shown to promote oral health. Your saliva is the first line of defense for your mouth.  It rinses away food particulates, contains minerals to help rebuild areas that have been weakened, and neutralizes harmful acids from bacteria, food, and drinks.  Dentists recommend being careful, however, as gum with sugar worsens tooth decay, rather than fighting it.  Chewing gum should also be avoided if you have TMJ problems.

It is challenging to know which foods are helping your smile and which ones to stay away from, so turn to the dentists at Keen Dental Care for help. With a comprehensive range of dental services, including non-surgical gum therapy and orthodontics, you will rest assured that they can help you to improve your smile. To find out more, visit their website or give their team a call at (573) 875-5336.