Since you were a little kid you heard people say “Eat your veggies,” since it’s widely known that getting more green in your diet is a good way to stay healthy. Eating fruits and vegetables are not only good for your overall health but your dental health as well.

Greens and Vegetables

Vegetables that are juicy and leafy are some of the best foods for your teeth. Cabbage, chard,  and collard greens are all great choices for your teeth. Each is loaded with vitamins and minerals that are necessary to help you maintain and improve your oral health. The nutrients found in dark leafy vegetables like spinach and lettuce contain high amounts of magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, calcium and magnesium. Because phosphorous is stored in the teeth (your bones), these minerals are instrumental in helping your body maintain balance.

Carrots

Munching on carrots and celery is a great way to keep your teeth healthy. When you chew foods that are crunchy and high in fiber, your mouth has to work overtime which stimulates the gums. Healthy gums are an important factor in oral care because they can keep your teeth healthy. These foods have beta-carotene in them, which your body needs to create vitamin A.

Citrus

Citrus fruits are extremely good for your oral health, because they have a large amount of vitamin C. Chewing fiber-rich, fresh fruits massages your gums, helps clean your teeth and increases salivation, which can neutralize the citric and malic acids that citrus fruits may leave in your mouth. Our favorite fruit choices are oranges, pears, and watermelons.

Apples

You know that eating an apple a day can keep the doctor away – this includes the dentist too. Apples, which we like to call nature’s toothbrush, are a good snack because they are fibrous. Eating an apple can help clean your teeth until you brush and floss. Avoid apple juices because of the added sugar which can cause tooth decay, but enjoying a fresh apple can stimulate your gums and reduce cavity- causing bacteria to build up in your mouth.

People who eat more fruits and vegetables usually have better smiles. When you eat well, you feel good and when you feel good you look good.  These foods that will keep you smiling until your next Vancouver family dentist visit at Salmon Creek Family Dental.