What to eat to have the best smile
When it comes to dental hygiene we all have the same idea. We are taught at a young age to brush twice daily, when we wake up and before we go to bed, as well as to floss and use mouthwash to remove those annoying food items stuck between your teeth, to keep our teeth sparkling and mouth fresh. Though this works for some, unfortunately with some food items and beverages the negative effects on our teeth can manifest through discoloration, stains, and bad breath, as well as the aging process being a factor in the deterioration of oral hygiene. Fortunately, there are several food items that can negate these effects leaving you with a much healthier mouth.
Foods that Contribute To a Healthier Mouth
- Raisins: Antioxidants found in raisins have been proven to help reduce bacteria that may cause gum disease and inflammation.
- Yogurt: This item works on three different levels. It helps reduce educes hydrogen sulfide, the chemical associated with bad breath. It also helps reduce plaque and gingivitis.
- Citrus fruits: Fruits high in vitamin C, such as berries and melons, help create an acidic environment that discourages bacteria growth in your mouth. Vitamin C also helps prevent gingivitis and gum disease, both responsible for smelly breath.
- Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants known as catechins that help lower the risk of the development of gum disease.
Look After your Mouth
Good oral hygiene helps to prevent cavities and stained or yellowed teeth, as well as bad breath. Bacteria in the mouth build up over time and mix with food particles and white blood cells to form a transparent, sticky film called plaque. The acids in the plaque break down your tooth enamel, weakening it, and allowing cavities to form. If you do not brush and floss regularly, this plaque hardens and forms tartar, a hard, yellow substance that can only be removed by dental specialists.
Family Oral Care from Catonsville Dental Care
Whether you need a wisdom tooth extracted or a professional cleaning, Catonsville Dental Care has the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat your problem as quickly and painlessly as possible. We offer a suite of services including dental implants, cleanings, Invisalign, and routine preventative dental treatments. We look forward to helping keep you smiling all year long. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at (410) 747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube.