Enamel-friendly Foods For Your Teeth

Enamel is the outer layer of your teeth. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. It is approximately 75% mineral and 25% organic material. Enamel protects your teeth from decay, bacteria, and acid.

Cheese

Cheese is a delicious, calcium-rich food that is also good for your teeth. In fact, cheese helps neutralize the acids in your mouth that lead to tooth decay and cavities. Plus, thanks to the bacteria-fighting properties of this dairy product, it can help prevent bad breath. Other good choices include milk, yogurt, soy milk, cottage cheese, and dark leafy greens like spinach. However, be careful with sugary foods and drinks like cookies, chips, candy, soda, and even fruit juices. Not only can they cause tooth decay, but they’ll also increase your risk of gum disease and enamel erosion. Additionally, when it comes to the cheeses you know and love, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association recommends looking for varieties that are lower in fat and salt, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

Leafy Greens

Dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale are full of calcium and vitamin A to support enamel strength. They also contain folic acid and iron to support healthy cell regeneration in the gum tissue. Eating dark leafy vegetables on a regular basis may help lower your risk for gum disease as well as maintain a beautiful smile. Try adding these to a salad or toss a handful into a smoothie for a natural tooth-whitening boost.

If you’re eating raw greens, be sure to prepare them properly by washing them and giving them a good rinse before eating. For fresh salads, we recommend slicing your veggies rather than shredding them to reduce wear on your teeth. If you are cooking the greens, try steaming them first to soften the texture and reduce the natural abrasiveness that can sometimes occur with cooked vegetables.

Milk & Yogurt

Dairy products have tons of health benefits, including helping your body digest food properly and preventing osteoporosis and high blood pressure. In addition to calcium and protein, yogurt and milk are high in phosphorus, which helps strengthen your tooth enamel. Try limiting your intake to about one serving per day of low- or non-fat dairy products to avoid building up plaque and tartar on your teeth.

While dairy will play a role in strengthening your tooth enamel, keep in mind that it’s also highly acidic and can soften it over time. You can counteract the effects of acid by brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after you eat or drink sugary or acidic foods and drinks. Talk to your dentist about other ways you can protect your enamel.

Call us at 773-880-2310 or email us at office@sheffieldsquaredental.com to schedule your appointment. Visit Sheffield Square Dental Care at 2835 N. Sheffield Ave, Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60657.