Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining your oral health. What you eat can either strengthen your teeth or contribute to decay and other dental issues. At Central Park Dental, Dr. Stephen Daniel Gardner DMD and our team want to help you make informed choices that promote a healthy smile.

Here’s a guide to the best and worst foods for your teeth:

Best Foods for Your Teeth

• Dairy Products: Foods like cheese, milk, and yogurt are rich in calcium and protein, which are essential for strengthening tooth enamel. Incorporating these into your diet can help maintain strong, healthy teeth.
• High-Fiber Foods: Fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, beans, and fresh fruits encourage saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and protect against decay.
• Water: Water is the best beverage for your oral health. It helps rinse away food particles and sugars, keeping your mouth clean and hydrated.
• Sugar-Free Gum: According to the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing sugar-free gum after meals can boost saliva flow, helping to clean your teeth and neutralize acids.
• Lean Protein: Foods such as eggs, fish, chicken, and lean red meats are high in phosphorus, a mineral that works with calcium to build strong teeth.

Worst Foods for Your Teeth

• Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits, wine, and candies contain acids that can erode your tooth enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay.
• Sodas: Soft drinks are high in sugar and acid, both of which can cause significant damage to your teeth over time.
• Sports Drinks: Although they’re designed to rehydrate, sports drinks often contain high levels of sugar, which can lead to tooth decay. Water is a better alternative.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production and making it harder for your mouth to cleanse itself. Alcohol can also stain your teeth over time.
• Sticky or Sugary Candies: Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay, especially when it comes in the form of sticky candies that cling to your teeth. Limit your intake of these treats, and drink water afterward to help wash away any residual sugars.

Protecting Your Smile

By choosing the right foods and drinks, you can significantly improve your oral health. Dr. Stephen Daniel Gardner DMD and our team at Central Park Dental encourage you to focus on a diet that benefits your teeth while minimizing your consumption of harmful foods. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial for keeping your smile bright and healthy. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment and learn more about how nutrition affects your oral health.