As the famous proverb states, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While this saying may be more commonly applied to serious health conditions like diabetes, heart attacks and so on, it also applies to cavities. It is much easier to prevent the formation of cavities than to treat them with complex dental procedures. Moreover, treatment of cavities can be very costly, not to mention uncomfortable. So how do you prevent cavities? One easy and simple solution is to modify your diet. Certain foods can help reduce your risk of cavity formation.
# 1: Milk
Calcium is a crucial nutrient for the body to build and maintain strong, healthy teeth, especially for growing children. Dairy products like milk are a rich source of calcium. You can also indulge in low fat cheese for a calcium-loaded and healthy snack. If you are allergic to dairy products or are lactose intolerant, certain other foods can also provide you with calcium. These include dark green vegetables like broccoli and spinach or canned fish like sardines that include the bones.
# 2: Apples
Eating apples provides your diet with a considerable amount of fiber. Consuming foods that are high in fiber can help stimulate saliva production, which assists in producing mineral defenses against cavities. These foods also provide a natural scrubbing action to help prevent the buildup of food deposits on and around your teeth. Other great sources of fiber include dried fruits like raisins, dates and bananas. You can also get fiber from vegetables like celery, carrots, beans and peas.
# 3: Oatmeal
Oatmeal and similar whole grain foods tend to be high in B vitamins and iron, which assists in keeping the gums and teeth healthy and strong. Whole grains also provide magnesium, which is an essential ingredient for teeth and bone health. Whole grains are also rich in fiber. If you are not a fan of oatmeal, try to include foods like brown rice, whole grain bread and whole grain pasta in your diet.
# 4: Yogurt
If your sweet tooth tends to sabotage your healthy eating efforts, concentrate on more nutritious alternatives. Try to avoid high-sugar sweets like ice cream and chocolates. Such foods can lead to plaque buildup that can weaken enamel, leaving your teeth prone to cavities. A snack of yogurt or frozen yogurt with berries can provide nutritional value while still satisfying your craving for something sweet.
# 5: Black or Green Tea
Black or green tea may not technically be foods. However, these beverages can not only help your body stay hydrated, they can also impart natural fluoride that is needed by the mouth. According to scientific research and reports, tea catechin can impede the process in which cariogenic bacteria create glucan, an important element in cavity formation.
Guest post contributed by Victoria for the Glebe Dental Group. Victoria is a freelance writer and has worked extensively in the field of oral hygiene as a dental nurse. She enjoys writing for various online dental blogs.
5 Foods That Prevent Cavities
