Although a glistening white smile is thought to be an indicator of healthy teeth, it's not exactly true. In fact, over zealous whitening techniques can weaken tooth enamel and place one's teeth in jeopardy. Regular brushing and flossing certainly contribute towards making teeth strong. So, why should you want your teeth to be strong instead of simply gleaming white and cavity-free? Strong teeth are more resistant to decay and cracks that may occur as we age. Aside from brushing and flossing, there are other ways to make your teeth heavy weight champions when it comes to strength:
- A good multi-vitamin that is fortified with minerals and other essential nutrients helps to keep the teeth safe from damage and makes them stronger.
- Vitamin C helps strengthen gums and raises one's resistance to fight off some illnesses. Fruits like kiwis, oranges, grapefruit and strawberries are a great source of Vitamin C because they can prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing and contributing to gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums.
- Snacking on seeds is an easy way to fortify the strength of the teeth. Seeds are high in healthy fats, which help the body resist harmful bacteria. There are also nutrients and minerals in seeds that help to reinforce tooth enamel, make them stronger and thereby more impervious to cavities. Try incorporating pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds into your family's diet. Eat them out of hand or add them to baked goods and salads.
- Eating raw, crunchy fruits and vegetables help keep the teeth clean and make them stronger. They are a much better choice than overly processed sugary or salty food options. Designate a snack basket or area of the fridge and stock up on apples, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, celery, and radishes. Your teeth will thank you!
- Dairy products have been recognized as a pro-dental health food source for ages. Low-fat yogurt, cheeses, and milk are excellent choices when it comes to foods that make the teeth stronger. These dairy products raise the pH levels in the mouth and reduce the effect of the acids produced by dental plaque. In turn, the raised pH prevents tooth decay. Dairy products are also rich in calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients adhere to the tooth enamel and act as a defense against acids.
When choosing dairy products, read the labels, especially on yogurt brands to make sure they are not loaded with sugar. One way to beat sugar at its game is to add fresh or dried fruits, seeds and nuts to plain yogurt. Plain, Greek yogurt topped with grated apples or pears, toasted pecans or walnuts, with a dash of cinnamon is surprisingly delicious! - Many people are always shocked to hear that chewing some brands of sugarless gum is actually good for the teeth! It turns out that the right chewing gum is very efficient in polishing tooth surface and removing food debris from the crevices. It also increases saliva production, which acts as an anti-bacterial agent. Only buy the brands with the official American Dental Association's symbol of approval.
- Drinking plenty of water and making H2O the "go-to" beverage is a no-brainer as a pro-dental health strategy. In addition to washing away food particles, establishing the water drinking habit immediately prevents the consumption of soft drinks, which have zero benefits, especially for the teeth! The sugars and acids in soda are direct causes in the buildup of plaque, cavities, and enamel breakdown. Furthermore, even the sugarless varieties wreak havoc because of their high acidity and artificial ingredients.
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