The Best Foods for a Brighter Smile

Teeth are the first step in digestion. They also play a significant role in our appearance, especially when we smile. Unfortunately, dental conditions can make you self-conscious about showing it.

Many foods are linked to dental problems, while others can improve the health of your teeth. 

If you live in Richmond Hill, Georgia, and are uncomfortable with your smile, let Dr. Nils Anderson and our experienced team at Village Dental help you restore your teeth so you can share your smile with the world.

Common dental conditions

Several dental issues can change the color of your teeth, including the following:

• Cavities: also called dental caries of tooth decay, they occur when the plaque enters the tooth enamel

• Gum disease (periodontitis): an infection of the gums

• Oral cancer: a serious oral disease caused by smoking, poor nutrition, genetic syndromes, human papillomavirus (HPV), or alcohol use

• Dental emergencies: knocked out teeth, chips, cracks, and abscesses are dental problems that need to be addressed quickly

Foods that cause discoloration or damage

Watch out for carbonated beverages (sodas), drinks high in sugar, foods with refined sugar candy, sweetened cereal, baked sweets, refined starchy foods, fruit juice, and alcoholic beverages. 

Many of these contain sugars and other particles that wear down the enamel that protects teeth, leading to discoloration, cracks, chips, or broken teeth.

The best foods for a brighter smile

To make your smile brighter, try these foods:

Dairy

Grass fed butter and cheese are high in vitamin K2, a nutrient that promotes healthy teeth. We don’t have the enzymes to convert vitamin K1 to K2, so this type of dairy makes a difference in dental health.

Fatty fish

This type of seafood is high in omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which helps to reinforce enamel with calcium. They can also reduce the risk of periodontitis.

Leafy greens

Greens are excellent for overall health, and the leafy variety helps by providing beneficial prebiotics.

Citrus fruits

Acids can damage teeth, but in moderation, grapefruits, oranges, lemons, limes and other citrus fruits can strengthen blood vessels and connective tissue in the mouth. That inhibits gum inflammation.

Cacao nibs

This is the primary ingredient in all forms of chocolate minus the sugar. It keeps oral bacteria in check and prevents plaque from forming on your teeth.

In addition to dietary changes to improve the health of your teeth, we also offer teeth whitening to brighten any stubborn stains caused by foods, drink, or dental conditions. 

Being cautious about what you eat improves your dental health. If you have concerns about the best diet to improve your dental health, make an appointment with Dr. Anderson and his experienced team at Village Dental today.