Everyone knows that oral care is important, and that a good oral health regimen goes way beyond brushing and flossing. Gum disease may affect, infect, and ultimately destroy your teeth. It mayalso make you more prone to heart disease. This alone should highlight the importance of proper dental care.

Fortunately, you don’t need to panic and run to our dental clinic…yet. Do know that simple, everyday food items have powerful purification properties that may keep your teeth and gums healthy. With that, here’s a list of some super foods that will keep your pearly whites beautiful and your gums safe.

Green Tea

Tea has been known to have numerous health and healing benefits. Green tea, in particular, contains catechins—compounds that may fight inflammation and control bacterial infections. Several studies have linked green tea catechins to weight loss and fewer occurrences of periodontal diseases.

Lean Beef

Now, we’re not advising you to head over to the nearest steak house and gobble down a T-bone or a filet mignon; after all, too much cholesterol and animal fat are bad for your heart and overall health. But lean beef, as well as oysters and lamb are rich in zinc—an anti-inflammatory mineral that has antioxidant and immunity-boosting powers. Vitamin B6, which is found in beef and seafood, also helps fight gum disease.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are packed with numerous teeth-friendly micronutrients including phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and more importantly, calcium. Calcium—the essential nutrient in teeth and bone strength—helps in re-mineralising the teeth. Also, individuals with zinc deficiencies are at higher risk of developing gum disease as the mineral helps fight the bacteria that causes the disease.

Almonds, Brazil nuts, and sesame seeds are some types that have high calcium content.

Strawberries and Kiwis

Vitamin C is important to your overall health. When it comes to your oral health, this vitamin helps collagen from breaking down. Without collagen, your gums may become extra tender and, therefore, susceptible to infections and gum disease.

Kiwis and strawberries have some of the highest concentration of Vitamin C, but citrus fruits are also suitable. Just be careful as too much citric acid may affect tooth enamel.

Onions

Can’t stand raw onion? So do the germs in your mouth. Especially when eaten raw, onions are great for fighting the microorganisms in your mouth thanks to its antimicrobial sulphur-containing compounds. You can have your daily dose of onions via a sandwich or a salad. If you really can’t handle it raw, you can have it cooked—it’s better than no onion at all.

These super foods are great for keeping your mouth healthy. They can only go so far, however. You still need to visit your dentist regularly, especially when your condition isn’t improving. Get in touch with us now and find out what we can do for you.