Foods That Can Affect Your Smile: Tips From Northbrook Dentist

You know that brushing and flossing are a requirement for having a great, healthy smile, and you also know that candy can cause cavities. What you may not know, however, is that the foods you eat can affect your smile in a positive way, as well. At your Northbrook Dentist, we know that you strive to have the best smile possible, so we have put together a list of foods that can affect your smile in a positive way.

Foods That Make Your Smile Better

1. Foods that are crunchy or chewy.

Healthy foods that are crunchy or chewy, such as carrots or nuts, encourage the flow of your saliva, which helps prevent cavities.

2. Dairy products.

Dairy products provide calcium, which leads to stronger, healthier teeth. Milk and cheese both contain a protein called casein, which leads to fewer cavities. Additionally, yogurt contains probiotics that protect your gums.

The calcium in dairy products benefits your smile in other ways, as well. Calcium promotes a strong jaw, giving your smile a great foundation. It also leads to stronger tooth enamel, which protects your teeth.

3. Raisins and grapes

Raisins and grapes contain antioxidants that reduce the number of cavities you get. Those same antioxidants can also prevent gum disease and inflammation.

4. Green Tea

Green tea has catechins, which are antioxidants that help prevent gum disease.

5. Water

Having a dry mouth can lead to bad breath and cavities. Drinking water will keep your mouth, throat, and lips wet.

The Foods That You Should Avoid

Sweet, sticky foods such as candy, cookies, cake, and other sugary treats can wreak havoc on your smile. These foods promote the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, leading to the formation of plaque and the production of acids. This could all lead to weakened enamel.

Final Thoughts On Foods That Can Affect Your Smile

While it is important to pay attention to what you eat, you also have to spend time taking care of your smile. As a dentist in Northbrook, we strive to give those in the surrounding areas the best dental care. If you want to learn more about your long-term dental health and improving your smile, we can help. If you live in the areas of Deerfield or Highland Park, Illinois and are looking for a dentist in Northbrook IL, contact Northbrook Dentist via our ‘Contact Us’ button, or by calling (847) 457-0400.