The Best and Worst Foods for Healthy Teeth

woman eating an apple to help with healthy teeth

Having healthy teeth is your golden ticket to optimal eating, speaking, and smiling—with confidence. But to get that golden ticket, you may have to skip out on some foods that can cause damage to your teeth.

Here’s a list of some of the best and worst foods for healthy teeth and a radiant smile:

The Best Foods

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to mention that healthy teeth and gums begin with a healthy diet. Eating healthy foods can make all the difference in maintaining healthy teeth. Here are some of the best:

Unsweetened Plain Yogurt (Preferably Greek Yogurt)

Full of healthy probiotics and calcium to help support your teeth.

Apples

High in fiber, which helps break up plaque buildup. Plus, the crunching action can also help massage your gums.

Cheese

Contains lactic acid, which helps to neutralize bad breath and keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

Unsweetened Green Tea

Rich in substances that help fight the bacteria that cause cavities like plaque.

Carrots

Raw, crunchy carrots stimulate saliva production which helps remove food particles from your teeth and neutralizes acids caused by bacteria.

Salmon

Filled with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, this helps keep your teeth healthy by strengthening your enamel.

The Worst Foods

Many foods cause a buildup of plaque which can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. To prevent plaque from seriously impacting your teeth, here is a list that you should try to avoid or at least limit. 

Sodas & Sugary Drinks

It’s no secret that high levels of sugar can lead to decay and cavities.

Candy & Sweets

Sticky, chewy candies like taffy and caramel are especially bad for your teeth because they cling to the teeth and break down into sugars that cause plaque buildup.

Hard Candies & Lollipops

Like taffy, these can stick to your teeth, leading to plaque buildup and decay.

Dried Fruits & Fruit Juices

Contrary to popular belief, these are high in sugar, which can put you at risk for cavities.

Chips & Crackers

Simple carbs like chips and crackers break down into sugars quickly in the mouth which can cause decay and cavities.

Coffee

That beloved cup of joe may have to go. It’s not a secret it can stain your teeth but it can also lead to cavities due to its acidity.

Consider reducing or eliminating added sugars, starches, and processed foods from your diet if you are looking for healthy results.

Get Your Radiant Smile With Stehl Family Dental

It’s always important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Stehl Family Dental is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care to help you achieve healthy teeth and a radiant smile.

We provide experienced and knowledgeable dental care services and utilize the latest technology for accurate diagnostics and treatments.

Take charge of your dental health by booking an appointment today with Stehl Family Dental. We are here to ensure that your teeth stay healthy and happy for years to come.