7 Foods That Help With A Healthy Mouth & Gums

Here at Dugan & Sweeney Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we believe in a whole body approach to achieving excellent oral health. This means that we encourage our patients to eat well, take care of their mouth, and get the dental services they need to improve the state of their dental well-being. Dental implants are just one treatment we offer that can have many benefits for your oral health. However, getting your teeth repaired is just one piece of the puzzle. Patients can also benefit from maintaining a healthy diet. Here are seven great foods to add to your plate to improve your oral health.

1) Salmon. This wonderfully colored fish contains healthy proteins and minerals that can strengthen teeth, fortify gums, and reduce inflammation in the mouth. This fishy food can also improve your diet by adding healthy cholesterol. Try a nice piece of salmon with veggies or add this pink fish to soups and salads for a chance of pace.

2) Whole Grains. Research shows that patients who consume several servings of healthy whole grains per day can reduce their risk of periodontal disease by up to 23 percent. Whole grains can also reduce inflammation. Add whole grain products with low sugar, healthy ingredients and a label that says “100 % whole grains”. Try having some whole grain bread for toast or a sandwich.

3) Peanut Butter. Peanut butter may be sticky, but it also contains nutrients that are beneficial for your teeth and gums. Add it in the morning to toast or to an apple or celery snack. Just be sure to purchase products without sugar or additives, and brush your teeth after enjoying this sticky treat.

4) Brown Rice. Brown rice packs the same punch of anti-inflammatory power as a full serving of whole grains. Substitute brown rice for white rice or potatoes and watch your teeth and gums thank you. You can also add brown rice to soups and salads for a bit of added texture.

5) Raisins. Raisins contain phytochemicals which can kill bacteria that can cause gum disease and cavities. Just a handful of these antioxidant snacks can give both flavor and health benefits. Be sure to avoid raisins with added sugar or ones are covered in sugary substances. Chocolate or yogurt can cancel out the healthy benefits of the naturally dried fruit. Try adding this dried fruit to salads, trail mix, or your morning cereal for a power packed punch of healthy antioxidants.

6) Dairy Products. Dairy products like milk and cheese strengthen teeth, making them more resistant to plaque and tooth decay. Have a glass of the beverage chilled with dinner or warmed up before you go to bed. You will improve your sleep as well as your oral health.

7) Colorful Fruits & Veggies. These foods are loaded with vitamins and minerals that can help keep gums and oral tissues healthy. Try a stir-fry, or add some of these foods to your soups for an added dose of vitamins!

Proper Oral Hygiene Is Important Too

Consuming healthy foods will be ineffective if patients are not practicing proper dental hygiene. Moreover, no amount of fruit, fish, or milk will improve teeth that are not being brushed and flossed correctly. So plan on picking up a toothbrush first before you incorporate any of the above foods into your diet. Brushing twice a day should be the absolute minimum. Flossing after meals can also help with oral health, along with regular visits to the dentist.

What is Good Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene means that your mouth looks and smells healthy. Some signs of a healthy mouth are teeth that are clean and free of food particles or debris, gums are healthy in color and do not bleed when patients brush or floss, breath that is fresh, teeth that are not discolored or dark in color.

What Does Proper Oral Hygiene Mean?

• Brushing and flossing daily and after meals.
• Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals.
• Avoiding acidic or high-sugar foods.
• Rinsing with a good quality fluoride mouth rinse.
• Drink fluoridated water or using fluoridated products.

Call Us Today For A Dental Implant Consultation

The exceptional staff at Dugan & Sweeney Oral and Maxillofacial Surgerywould love to help you restore unattractive missing or damaged teeth with dental implants. Don’t wait to get that gorgeous smile you have always wanted. We proudly serve patients in the Pittsburgh, Greenville, Butler, and Zelienople, PA areas. So give us a call today to schedule a consultation.