A scary combination for the future well being of your teeth: overindulgence of sweets, poor oral hygiene and avoiding your semi-annual checkup with your dentist. We understand how taking a bite of your favorite dessert can make your taste buds erupt with joy, however it is smart and responsible to limit your sweet tooth cravings if you are wanting to prevent the buildup of plaque that can lead to tooth decay. On average, about 92% of adults ages 20-64 have had cavities in their permanent teeth. The truth is that when you enable your sweet tooth time and time again while also exhibiting poor oral hygiene, you are bound to suffer from damage caused by plaque formation. This plaque can cultivate, causing cavities as and acid erosion in your teeth. Fortunately, there are foods out there that can help build your teeth stronger and decrease the risk of cavities and acid erosion in your teeth.
-
Say Cheese
Or eat cheese, actually. It can prevent cavity formation by helping balance out your mouth’s pH levels. Most dairy products can actually help your teeth but cheese has the most anti-cavity properties because of the rise in pH levels. This rise leads to increases in calcium which in turn triggers the form of saliva that works to strengthen your enamel.
-
Apples
While most fruits actually contain a lot of sugar, apples assist your mouth in producing the much needed saliva which reduces the levels of cavity forming bacteria.
-
Milk
Milk, along with cheese, helps your mouth’s pH levels. It can help strengthen tooth enamel while still weakening the mouth’s acidity levels. (High acid levels can create holes in your teeth causing cavities and tooth decay).
-
Green tea and Black tea
If you and your sweet tooth do end up indulging, try sipping some green or black tea afterwards. The tea leaves contain magical properties that can prevent tooth decay and cavities. However, it’s best to drink it plain, with no added sweeteners, milk or cream.
-
Wine
I’m sure all the alcohol lovers out there are glad to hear it! Wine contains active components such as proanthocyanidins that are not only tooth-healthy, but considered an antioxidant as well!
-
Other fruits, fiber and veggies
Dried fruits such as raisins and figs, or fresh fruits like bananas, apples and oranges, or other veggies like beans, Brussel sprouts and peas all create mineral defenses that maintain and increase saliva in your mouth, fighting against tooth decay.
Call or make an appointment your Livermore Hills Dentist today in order for a more in depth, detailed list of what foods to eat to help maintain your healthy smile!