Milk seems to be the most common recommendation for strong teeth because of the calcium content. Your mother or grandmother probably spent much of your childhood telling you to drink your milk and…that candy will give you cavities. And while they definitely weren’t wrong, let’s just say that drinking milk and avoiding candy are not the only food (or drink!) choices that can help or hurt your teeth.

But what other foods and drinks are the best or the worst for your teeth?

At WoodSprings Dentistry, we really believe in providing the best dental care possible for our patients in The Woodlands and Spring, TX. And part of providing the best dental care is educating our patients on healthy choices that directly impact your oral and dental health.

So without further adieu, here is a list of 5 foods and drinks to choose and 5 to avoid if you want strong, healthy teeth:

CHEESE

Really? Yes, really. Cheese is also rich in calcium, but natural cheese also have an extra superpower when it comes to your teeth. Cheese contains a protein that actually stabilizes and repairs the enamel of your teeth. Amazing, huh? Choose cheeses such as brie, cheddar, Swiss, Gouda or other similar options. 

Since we’re in Texas, we do feel the need to point out that queso does not count (or any other over-processed cheese, such as Velveeta or Cheez Whiz). :)

LEAFY GREENS

Leafy greens are rich in fiber, which means that ating spinach, kale, brussel sprouts, and other similar veggies, promotes the production of saliva that cleans and rinses your teeth while also neutralizing damaging acids.

GREEN TEA

Green tea contains flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking green tea can help prevent and reduce gum inflammation. You need to be careful to avoid any additives to your tea like sugar or artificial sweeteners - just simple, steeped green tea is the trick.

FISH, EGGS, AND LEAN PROTEIN

Phosphorus is a mineral found in eggs, fish, lean means, nuts and beans and helps build strong teeth. How? Phosphorus works together with calcium to create hydroxyapatite, which is the main structural component of bones and tooth enamel. So keep in mind that calcium-rich foods need phosphorus-rich foods for the best health results.

WATER

Of course it should come as no surprise that water is one of the best things for healthy teeth. Water helps cleanse your mouth and rinse away food particles that may stick to your teeth and gums leading to decay. Water also dilutes harmful acids and washes away residue that may cause staining and bad breath.

And what are some of the foods and drinks that should be avoided?

BREAD

“What?!” Yep. Primarily white bread to be exact. The starch in white bread is easily broken down into sugar by your saliva and then sticks to the crevices in your mouth…which can cause cavities. If you simply love bread (who doesn’t?), then opt for unrefined options like whole wheat or other varieties with less added sugars.

CARBONATED DRINKS

Carbonated drinks and sugary sodas can pack a double-whammy on your teeth when you consider the sugar and acid they contain. Dark-colored sodas can also discolor or stain your teeth. For the healthiest teeth, try to avoid all sugary, carbonated beverages.

DRIED FRUITS

Dried fruits are sticky and sugary - a combination that can be harmful to your teeth because of how little bits can get stuck in the crevices of your teeth and cause the erosion of your enamel. If you do eat dried fruits or give them to your kiddos for snacks, be sure to rinse with water after eating and then floss and brush as soon as possible.

ICE

Ok, so ice itself is not bad for your teeth because it really is just water (which is good for you!). But chewing on ice (or other hard substances) can damage the enamel of your teeth and potentially cause dental emergencies such as chipped teeth or loosened crowns. 

ACIDIC FOODS

Tomatoes, pickles, coffee, lemons, oranges, or other foods and drinks that are highly acidic can be particularly damaging to your teeth. Many of these foods have health benefits (vitamin C, antioxidants, etc), but can also wear down your tooth enamel, cause cavities and increase sensitivity. When eating acidic foods, try to eat in moderation and then rinse your mouth thoroughly after to help flush out and dilute the acids left behind.

The above list of healthy and harmful foods for your teeth is not exhaustive but is a good start for making healthier choices when it comes to your teeth and gums. If you have any questions about other oral hygiene or oral health, be sure to ask Dr. Samantha or Dr. James Tejada at your next appointment.

At WoodSprings Dentistry, our team of dentists and dental professionals want to help provide you and your family with a lifetime of oral and dental health. If you are looking for a dentist in The Woodlands or Spring area, call WoodSprings Dentistry today to book an appointment today.