Five foods that are surprisingly good for your teeth

You brush and floss faithfully. But you want to know what else you can do to keep your teeth in tip-top shape. Well, start by taking a look at your diet. Not only are there stain-causing foods you should avoid, but there are also foods you should indulge in because they’re great for your oral health. Here are a few we’d recommend.

1. Salmon

Calcium helps protect your teeth and gums, and salmon is packed full of the mineral. It’s also rich in vitamin D, which your body requires to sufficiently absorb calcium. Vitamin D also helps fight cavities and gum disease.

2. Carrots

Crunch away because the chewing action of eating carrots scrubs your teeth and massages your gums, much like a toothbrush. The veggie is also high in keratin, which fights plaque, and vitamin A, which strengthens tooth enamel.

3. Garlic

Forget about warding off vampires. Garlic will help ward off a bad dental check-up. It’s known for its antibacterial properties. That’s thanks to the compound allicin, which prevents the activity of a wide range of bacteria that can throw off your oral health. So toss some chopped garlic in your favorite dishes because your teeth will thank you.

4. Dark chocolate

Yes, chocolate is making the list. Scientists have found that dark chocolate’s cocoa compound CBH hardens tooth enamel and makes your teeth resistant to cavities and tooth sensitivity. Make sure you get dark chocolate with 75 percent cocoa content and less than 8 grams of sugar per serving to reap the most benefits.

5. Green and black tea

Polyphenols might be a mouthful to say, but this plant compound helps suppress bacteria, and it’s found in green and black tea. This compound is important because every time you eat, you’re feeding the bacteria in your mouth, which then excrete as acid and waste product. But green and black tea will help fight this, keeping your smile healthy.

So go ahead, add these items to your grocery list, keep up your brushing and flossing habits, and schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Swanson. You’ll be on your way to a healthy smile in no time.