Food does more than provide you with fuel for energy. It also provides essential nutrients that support your health and healing processes. While you have probably heard the evils of food and the negative effect that it can have on your teeth, you probably never considered the myriad of benefits that food can have on your oral health. While making your grocery list, you should choose a variety of foods that help to boost your oral health. Here are four mouth-healthy foods and beverages that appeal to the whole family.

Onions

Onions get a bad reputation because of their strong scent and their ability to make you teary-eyed; however, they are very beneficial for your mouth health. Onions are rich in sulfuric antibacterial compounds. These compounds help to reduce your risk of suffering from food-borne illnesses. They also help to combat negative bacteria in your mouth.  

Cheese

Dairy is packed with health benefits. Everyone knows that dairy is good for building strong bones; however, dairy products such as cheese are also great for your mouth and teeth due to their calcium and phosphorus content. These minerals help to strengthen your teeth as they are worn down by chewing and grinding. Calcium and phosphorus also help to balance the pH levels in your mouth, reducing the effects of acids that break down tooth enamel.

Apples

The old saying goes: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But could an apple a day also aid your dentist in protecting your oral health? Apples are crunchy and have a high water content. Although they are naturally sweet, their high water content helps to dilute the sugar and negate its harmful effects on your teeth. Further, the chewing required to break down a crunchy apple stimulates saliva production, helping to wash away any leftover food particles that could bond with bacteria to form plaque.

Green tea

Research carried out by the American Academy of Periodontists suggests that green tea helps to reduce gum disease. Green tea is rich in the antioxidant catechin, which appears to play a role in reducing inflammation, one of the hallmarks of the gum disease gingivitis. This helps you to eat and speak more comfortably without worrying about inflamed, red gums that can cause discomfort or make you self-conscious about their appearance.

Foods and beverages that can make your mouth healthier are easily in reach. Luckily, they are also very affordable and easy to find at your local grocery store. You can easily integrate them into your daily meals and add them to some of your favorite recipes. Eating right to benefit your oral health helps to ensure a healthy and bright future. Talk to experts like Southridge Pediatric Dentistry for more information.

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