Nobody likes bad breath and poor oral hygiene, and if you are looking for the basic solution to keep your mouth healthy then you need to know good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing.
However, if you still suffer from ill oral healthThis may be due to your eating habits, in this report 10 foods that maintain oral health and hygiene, according to the website “health“.
10 healthy foods for oral hygiene
1. Yogurt
Since yogurt is high in calcium, it can strengthen tooth enamel (the outer layer of teeth). According to some recent scientific studies, it can also eliminate bad breath by reducing odor-causing compounds such as hydrogen sulfide. However, make sure to eat yogurt that does not contain excessive sugar as it may do more harm than good.
2. Apples and carrots
Crunchy fruits like apples, carrots, and celery stimulate saliva production, which eventually helps rinse the mouth of any bacteria that may lead to tooth decay.
3. Raisins
Although it is usually advised not to eat sticky foods as they may become a breeding ground for bacteria, some sticky foods can improve oral health. Chicago College of Dentistry conducted a study that revealed that raisins contain phytochemicals that can inhibit the bacteria responsible for causing tooth decay and gum disease.
4. Green tea
You must have heard a lot about green tea as an effective weight loss drink. However, new research has shown that it can also promote gum health by reducing inflammation and the growth of bacteria inside the mouth that leads to gum disease.
5. Whole grains
Whole grains like oats, barley, bran etc. can indirectly improve gum health as well as by enhancing the body’s ability to process blood sugar.
6. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been used to maintain oral health since ancient times. It contains an oil called cinnamic aldehyde that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, thus preventing infections and diseases.
7. Cranberry
Cranberries are best known for treating bladder infections but can also be used to improve gum health. They contain natural compounds that make it more difficult for bacteria to attach to surfaces. Studies have shown that cranberry juice prevents the formation of glucan, which acts as a building block for plaque. However, you should still brush your teeth after eating cranberries because they contain high amounts of sugar and acids.
8. Onions
Although onions themselves are a pungent-smelling vegetable, they are wonderfully effective against different types of bacteria and can help prevent cavities from forming.
9. Leafy vegetables
There are countless health benefits of consuming leafy green vegetables, they help in managing blood sugar and maintaining dental health. They also stimulate saliva production and contain phytochemicals that can eradicate bacteria.
10. Milk and cheese
Both milk and cheese are rich in calcium that strengthens teeth and bones. They also contain a protein called casein, which can neutralize acids produced by bacteria – thus reducing bad breath and preventing yellowing of the teeth.