Besides an Apple a Day, What Keeps Dental Problems Away?

The saying goes: “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Here at Studio City Dental Center, we love our dentist and staff, so we like to say, “an apple a day keeps dental problems away!” After all, what you eat affects not only your overall physical health but your oral health as well.

Kids and adults alike are still getting cavities. The CDC says that almost 19 percent of children and 31 percent of adults have untreated cavities. About 85 percent of kids have gone to see their dentist in the last year, but only 62 percent of seniors and 64 percent of adults have done the same.

In addition to good dental hygiene practices (think brushing and flossing daily) as well as visiting the dentist twice yearly, be mindful of what you put in your body. The foods you eat and the beverages you drink can have an impact on the state of your oral health.

Here are some of the health benefits of certain foods that will help keep up your dental hygiene in Studio City.

Apples

We all seem to hit that mid-afternoon slump, but many of us rush for that cup of coffee. You may be better off reaching for an apple instead. This fruit provides the body with a natural boost of energy, leaving your breath fresher and whiter than if you were to drink coffee, which can smell and stain. Apples are natural cleansers, scrubbing the plaque and bacteria that causes bad breath. So, when you can’t get to the bathroom to brush your teeth after a meal, crunch into a fresh apple for a similar cleansing effect.

Carrots

Just like apples, carrots are not only crunchy, they are also full of fiber. Eat a handful of raw carrots after a meal to increase the saliva production in your mouth, which will in turn reduce the risk of developing cavities. Carrots are also a strong source of vitamin A. Top your salad with slices of raw carrots, or just eat some baby carrots right out of the bag as a snack.

Celery

Celery acts like a toothbrush of sorts, as it scrapes food particles and bacteria from your teeth. It also has lots of vitamins A and C, two powerful antioxidants that boost the health of your gums.

Calcium-Rich Foods

Foods rich in calcium are beneficial to your oral health. Choose low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese and yogurt, fortified soy drinks and tofu, almonds, salmon, and dark green leafy vegetables, which all work to promote strong teeth and bones. For example, the probiotics found in yogurt are great for your gums because the good bacteria overpower the bad bacteria that can cause cavities. You’re best off with a plain variety and no added sugar, though.

Phosphorous

Foods high in phosphorous are also good for strong teeth, such as:

• Eggs
• Lean meat
• Fish
• Dairy
• Nuts
• Beans

Vitamin C

The vitamin C found in citrus fruits and certain vegetables can promote gum health, so eat plenty of oranges, tomatoes, broccoli, peppers, potatoes and spinach.

Almonds

Almonds are an ideal source of calcium and protein, plus they have the added advantage of being low in sugar. Have a quarter cup of almonds along with your lunch or add a handful to your salad or stir-fry.

Contact Studio City Dental Center

Need more oral health-friendly tips? Is it time for your twice-yearly dental visit? Schedule an appointment online or contact us at 818-762-2977.