- Cheese. Dairy products, especially cheese, contain calcium and casein, a type of protein. Both of these play important roles in killing bacteria found in your mouth and in repairing damaged tooth enamel. Cheese also has less acid than some of its dairy counterparts, such as yogurt and milk, making it your best dairy option.
- Kiwi. Kiwi contains the highest amount of Vitamin C of all fruits, which is essential for a healthy mouth–it helps produce collagen which strengthens gums. It also helps to strengthen your blood vessels and connective tissue. Other fruits high in Vitamin C, such as oranges and strawberries, are beneficial as well.
- Celery. Crunchy vegetables such as celery and spinach are great for your mouth because all the chewing massages your gums and forces your body to produce more saliva. The more saliva, the better (it neutralizes bacteria).
- Green tea. Green tea contains catechins, a natural phenol and antioxidant that kills bacteria that lead to plaque and bad breath.
- Salmon. The vitamin D found in salmon is critical for oral health — it allows your body to absorb calcium, making it easier for your teeth and gums to protect themselves against disease.
- Sugar-free gum. This helps clean teeth and stimulate the production of saliva, washing away acid from the teeth. Many varieties also are sweetened with xylitol which is an alcohol that kills bacteria.
- Shiitake mushrooms. These contain lentinan, a naturally occurring sugar that prevents bacteria from forming plaque.
- Water. As effective as mouthwash may be at swishing away particles, water keeps your gums hydrated and stimulates the production of saliva, an excellent defense against bacteria.
The site of candy may make you smile but it's these healthy foods and beverages that will make that smile look good. Ensuring your mouth gets all its essential vitamins and minerals is important — these foods not only do that, but also help you kill plaque-forming bacteria, massage your gums, and more. Check out these foods and beverages known for promoting good oral health — some may surprise you!
