Protecting your teeth is critical if you want to keep them for life. Unlike every other structure in your body–like muscles, skin, and even bone–your teeth can’t heal. There are some repair mechanisms, but they’re slow and easily disrupted–by your diet.  Most people don’t think about how their diet can be affecting their teeth, at least not until they get a cavity. If you want to take care of your teeth, here are 5 foods you should include in your diet to ensure the longevity of your teeth. 

Beautiful woman looking at camera while eating yogurt at home. Eating this and other dairy products like rich in calcium can help build stronger bones - that includes your teeth.

Dr. Hill Recommendeds These 5 Foods For Tooth Health

  1. Cheese, Yogurt and most Dairy. These calcium rich foods are great for helping build bones to be nice and strong, and guess what teeth are? Bones! Dairy products can also help balance the pH of your mouth to be less friendly to bacteria that can cause decay and cavities. The probiotics in yogurt help to keep the bad bacteria at bay. Be cautious though, yogurt should be no-sugar-added, otherwise you lose the majority of the benefits. 
  2. Nuts. Almonds are the best nuts for your teeth, as they provide your teeth with vital nutrients and proteins, like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Nuts are also low in sugar and carbohydrates, which can damage your teeth in high quantities. 
  3. Vegetables and Fruits. Not only are they part of a balanced diet, but fruits and vegetables can also help you and your teeth for a long time. Usually, this food requires a lot of chewing, which is actually a good thing for your teeth. Chewing helps prevent the buildup of plaque that can form on teeth as well as preventing the build up of harmful bacteria. 
  4. Sugar-Free Gum. Adding sugar-free gum to your dental routine can help prevent cavities and dental decay, as well as giving you fresh breath when you don’t have time at work to brush your teeth. 
  5. Water. Water has many health benefits, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it can help your teeth as well. Drinking fluoridated water can help make your teeth resistant to the foods that aren’t as good for your teeth.

Biter Beware!

And while we’ve got you thinking about your diet, here are a few foods to avoid:

  1. Cola. Are you a big soda fan? Do you open a new can before you even finish your current can? Do you have a refillable Big Chug cup that you carry with you everywhere? you’re not gonna like this, but it’s probably time to give up your cola. It has the ability to stain your teeth, plus it’s highly acidic. Acidity erodes the enamel on your teeth (the beautiful protective outer layer). Not only does this make your teeth more vulnerable to cavities and cracking, but thin enamel lets the darker layers of the tooth show through to whitening won’t help your smile. And, while we’re on the subject, did you know that the fizz in soda (not to mention the sugar) can make you fat?
  2. Hard Foods. From lollipops to potato chips, most food that is man-made and somewhat difficult to bite into, isn’t good for your teeth. With candies that you suck on, they can become attached to your teeth and erode their protective enamel. Potato chips can lodge between teeth and create a breeding ground for bad bacteria. Protect your teeth after eating these foods by brushing and flossing daily. 
  3. Citrus. Oranges, lemons and limes are some of the worst possible foods for your teeth. They erode your enamel and, after a period of time, create weak points in your teeth that bad bacteria can prey on.  

Contact a St. Louis Dentist Today!

Worried about your teeth? Wondering what the best diet is for your teeth? Book an appointment with us today at our office by calling (314) 678-7876 (Downtown St. Louis) or (314) 678-7876 (Clayton).