As you may already know, vegetables and dairy are good for your teeth, but there are other foods in your diet that can have a positive impact on your oral health. At King Orthodontics, we’ve put together a list of three foods that are good for your teeth and can help strengthen them. These foods can help you have a shiny, healthy smile at your next orthodontic exam:

Chocolate

It is known that chocolate and candy can be harmful to your teeth and can put you at risk for cavities and tooth decay. Although it may be surprising to see chocolate on this list, organic, low-sugar chocolate that is made from at least 70% cocoa can offer a variety of benefits to your teeth and gums. This type of chocolate contains a nutrient called CBH, which is proven to help enamel become harder, which in turn helps to prevent tooth decay.

Chocolate: Good for Braces

Keep in mind that not all chocolates are created equal. To reap these benefits, it is essential to choose chocolate that is quality-produced, organic, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. We still recommend they you brush your teeth after eating chocolate, no matter what kind, to help prevent plaque and bacteria from building up.

Hamburgers

Having an occasional hamburger is not only a delicious treat, but it also provides several benefits to the health of your mouth. Red meat is filled with a rich supply of Iron, protein, and B12, which support the health of your gums. Nutritional benefits include:

Vitamin B12- This nutrient is essential to producing new red blood cells. If you have a B12 deficiency, it could mean that your red blood cells are shaped abnormally, causing them to be less efficient in supplying your body with oxygen, which can increase your risk of oral infections.

Iron- This helps to distribute oxygen through your entire body, which includes your mouth. A hamburger contains high amounts of IronIron, which can help protect your mouth from sores and helps to provide sufficient oxygen, lowering your risk of oral infections.

Proteins- This provides essential nutrients that give your cells structure, help you build muscle, and also supply your body with the energy you need when you are low on carbs. A hamburger can contain close to 30 grams of protein, which is a healthy portion of the recommended 50 – 175 daily intake for an average 2,000 calorie a day diet. Protein also supports strength in your teeth and jaw.

Ginger

Fresh, organic, raw ginger roots provide a variety of health benefits from alleviating nausea to reducing stomach, but it also provides essential nutrients to your teeth. Ginger can help to remove plaque, prevent cavities, as well as strengthen your gums, and prevent inflammation. By chewing on raw ginger, you can prevent oral infections, gingivitis, plaque, and cavities due to the main ingredients Gingerol and Raffinose.

Raffinose destroys bacteria, preventing sugars from affecting your teeth and gums by preventing the formation of biofilm or a layer of bacteria on your teeth. Gingerol works to kill off bacteria in the mouth while also reducing swelling and inflammation.

Keep Your Teeth Healthy with King Orthodontics

At King Orthodontics, we recommend that in addition to a nutrient-dense diet and consistent daily dental care, you should also stay hydrated throughout the day to help keep your saliva at proper levels to help break down food and reduce odors and bacteria. Water also helps to rinse your teeth after eating, reducing plaque and preventing tooth decay.

Contact us today to schedule your exam!