Maintaining good oral hygiene is not only beneficial now, but for the future. Taking care of the body, including the mouth, can prevent other medical conditions as people age. At Your Dental Office in Toronto, and Etobicoke, we can tell a lot about a person's overall health by looking at the state of the person's mouth. Besides brushing teeth and flossing, some vitamins and foods can help with bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Fluoride
Seafood, poultry, and especially water that contains fluoride is one of the biggest helpers for a clean mouth. Fluoride makes teeth stronger and prevents cavities. Of course, use toothpaste that has fluoride in it too.
Calcium
Yogurt, milk, cheese, salmon, almonds, and dark leafy vegetables are all high in calcium. Calcium, as most people are aware of aids in bone development, and this includes teeth. Calcium promotes strong jawbones and keeps the roots of the teeth stable.
Phosphorous
For calcium to work at its highest potential, it needs support from phosphorous. Both of these essential minerals are imperative to the continuation of oral health. Sardines, nuts, sunflower seeds, and whole grains are all high in phosphorous.
Polyphenols
Found in green and black teas as well as many types of berries, cloves, dark chocolate, and other plant-based foods. Polyphenols are a critical micro-nutrient that can improve the well-being in the body but even in the mouth with the antioxidants that they hold. Polyphenols can kill a lot of bacteria in the mouth, supporting a cleaner mouth.
Vitamin C
Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, tomatoes, lemons, papaya, strawberries, oranges, and spinach are some of the highest sources of vitamin C. Dentists know that this vitamin strengthens gums which stops many gum diseases and purifies the mouth.
Having a healthy mouth can prevent cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and of course, problems with oral health as people age. Visit Your Dental Office, in Toronto or Etobicoke, annually for checkups to maintain strong oral health. Taking care of the mouth is critical to living a long and healthy life. Contact us today to book an appointment and learn how to maintain good oral health.