Dental hygiene is an essential component of the general health care routine, through brushing and flossing.
But many may not know that nutrition also plays an important role when it comes to having healthy teeth.
And regarding the foodstuffs that are recommended to be eaten to get clean and healthy teeth, Dr. Khaled Qassem, chief orthodontist at the Spanish Impress Medical Center, said that some foods are necessary to maintain oral health, according to the Italian “supereva” website.
“Chocolate helps fight tooth decay because its beans contain strong anti-bacterial agents,” Qassem said.
Dark chocolate contains theobromine, which works to prevent cavities and gum bleeding by killing harmful bacteria for the teeth and gums.
But this does not mean that chocolate should be eaten in large quantities, but it is recommended to consume a small enough amount to maintain dental health.
And it’s not just chocolate, there are other tooth-friendly foods as well, as “dairy products are known to be a rich source of calcium and vitamin D, which not only strengthens teeth, but also whitens their enamel,” according to Qassem.
There are also many fruits known for their health properties, such as strawberries, apples and cranberries, which are good snacks for teeth.
“The best type of this fruit for teeth is strawberry, because it contains a high percentage of xylitol, which is responsible for attacking plaque-causing bacteria,” Qassem explained.
Plaque is a clear, sticky substance that appears on the teeth and gums, and contains bacteria that produce acids and some chemicals that are harmful to teeth.
Apples are also one of the best fruits for teeth, which is due to the fact that the more you chew, the more saliva is produced, which acts as a protection for the teeth, as well as contributing to the elimination of plaque.
In addition, blueberries are very low in sugar and are known for their antioxidant properties, which help prevent gingivitis.
In contrast, citrus fruits have a very acidic taste and can erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities over time.
The same applies to foods rich in sugars and starches, as Oral Health UK warns that “when you eat foods that contain sugars and starches, the bacteria in dental tartar produce acids that attack the enamel and thus lead to caries and infections.
