The Best Foods for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Your Diet Affects Your Smile

What you eat significantly impacts your dental health. At FB Dental Yarrabilba, we educate our patients about nutrition's role in maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums. The right foods can strengthen enamel, fight bacteria, and promote gum health.

Calcium-Rich Foods for Strong Teeth

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen tooth enamel. Cheese is particularly beneficial as it stimulates saliva production and contains casein, a protein that fortifies enamel. For those who are lactose intolerant, leafy greens, almonds, and fortified plant milks provide calcium alternatives.

Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Apples, carrots, and celery act as natural toothbrushes, stimulating saliva flow and scrubbing tooth surfaces. These fibrous foods massage gums and help remove food particles. Raw vegetables also require more chewing, which exercises jaw muscles and promotes oral health.

Foods Rich in Vitamin C

Oranges, strawberries, capsicum, and broccoli contain vitamin C, essential for healthy gums. Vitamin C strengthens blood vessels and connective tissue, reducing inflammation and helping prevent gum disease. However, citrus fruits are acidic, so rinse with water after consumption.

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Sugary snacks and drinks feed harmful bacteria that produce acid, leading to tooth decay. Sticky foods like dried fruit and lollies cling to teeth longer. Acidic beverages including soft drinks, sports drinks, and wine can erode enamel over time. If you do indulge, drink water afterwards and wait before brushing.

Need dietary advice for better dental health? Contact FB Dental Yarrabilba for personalised nutrition guidance.