Foods for healthy teeth

---

Extract from the article: There is a proven link between a healthy diet and healthy teeth. While sweets are not recommended to prevent tooth decay, there are certain foods and drinks that are best enjoyed on a daily basis. Here are some foods whose composition can help mainta

---

There is a proven link between a healthy diet and healthy teeth. While sweets are not recommended to prevent tooth decay, there are certain foods and drinks that are best enjoyed on a daily basis. Here are some foods whose composition can help maintain good oral hygiene.

The best way to keep your teeth healthy is to eat plenty of fibre-rich foods such as apples, celery and watermelon. Like water, eating these foods encourages salivation, which helps build up mineral defences against cavities.

Plain water

In a recent issue of its journal "Infodents", the Swiss Society of Dentists recommends drinking water after every meal or nibble. Every time we eat or drink, we increase the risk of acid attacks on our tooth enamel. Drinking water helps to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth, produce more saliva and thus neutralise the acids.

Green tea

Green tea leaves release catechins that prevent the formation of dental plaque.They also contain fluoride, which helps the enamel fight acid attacks.With its antibacterial action, green tea is also a good remedy for gingivitis and bad breath.

Fish and shellfish

Fish is a key ally in the relationship between diet and healthy teeth. They contain omega-3 fatty acids that are excellent for your health. What's more, their flesh is rich in fluoride, which helps to strengthen tooth enamel.Salmon, for example, contains around 1.9 mg/100 g.

Cheese

With its calcium, phosphorus and casein content, cheese inhibits bacteria in the mouth and helps remineralise enamel. A study published in the May/June 2013 issue of General Dentistry, the journal of the American Academy of General Dentistry, showed that eating cheese raised the pH in consumers' mouths, thereby reducing their risk of tooth decay. It would appear that the chewing required to eat cheese increases saliva production.

Green leafy vegetablesCabbage, parsley, lettuce and spinach also promote good oral health.They are rich in calcium, which is necessary for building tooth enamel.According to PasseportSanté, they also contain folic acid, a type of vitamin B with numerous health benefits. This vitamin helps to treat gum problems in pregnant women.Apples

Eating an apple causes saliva to be produced.This eliminates bacteria and food particles.The fruit's fibrous texture also stimulates the gums. Include a whole apple or apple wedges in your breakfast to thoroughly cleanse your mouth at the end of the meal.Carrots

Eating a handful of raw carrots at the end of a meal increases saliva production.This reduces the risk of tooth decay. As well as being rich in fibre, carrots are an important source of vitamin A.

Celery

Celery acts a bit like a toothbrush, scraping food particles and bacteria off teeth. It's also a good source of vitamins A and C, two antioxidants that boost gum health.

Wholegrain rice, bread or pasta

Wholemeal foods do not contain simple sugars, which are responsible for the formation of cavities.Instead, they are made up of complex sugars that contribute to the feeling of satiety.So you're less tempted to nibble, which reduces acid attacks in the mouth.

Dark chocolate 

Cocoa is renowned for its benefits to teeth. The only condition is that you choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa.It contains three elements: phosphates, polyphenols and fatty acids.Together, they offer optimum protection against acids, bacteria and dental erosion.

Nuts and seeds

These foods are rich in minerals that are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Low in carbohydrates, they contain calcium and fluoride.Another advantage is that their hard texture encourages chewing.This produces more saliva, which helps neutralise acids. It's best to eat nuts in their natural state, without salt or sugar coatings. Cashew nuts are preferable.

William O.

Article validated by Mathieu Tobossi, Specialist in food hygiene and quality