Strong, cavity-free teeth are often thought to be the mark of a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle. However, there’s a lot more to excellent oral health than simply brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Here is a list of six fool-proof ways to strengthen your teeth and safeguard your stunning, pearly white smile.
Chew gum in between meals
Gum isn’t only fantastic for freshening your breath ahead of a hot date or an important business meeting. It also works to keep the mouth moist by encouraging saliva production, all while remineralizing your teeth. Just be sure to choose a brand of gum that does not contain any added sugar. Look for ingredients like sorbitol or xylitol for maximum peace of mind.
Cut sugar out of your diet
Sugar is the ultimate enemy when it comes to dental health, and eating a diet high in sugar automatically increases your risk of tooth decay. This is because the bacteria that exist naturally inside of your mouth feed on sugar to produce plaque, which subsequently produces the acids that eat away at the enamel on the surface of your teeth. You can avoid sugar by steering clear of processed and packaged foods and opting for natural alternatives instead.
Up your calcium intake
Calcium plays a critical role in strengthening your teeth. While it is produced in your teeth naturally, it often needs to be replaced at a more rapid rate than it can actually replenish itself due to the fact that bacteria and acids strip it away over time. The older you get, the more calcium you will need in order to keep the calcium levels in your teeth at a high enough level. Along with taking a calcium supplement, you can also increase your calcium intake by consuming lots of leafy green vegetables, seeds, cheese, and yogurt.
Take probiotics
Probiotics are known to assist with remineralization in the mouth – great news for oral health. Look out for probiotic supplements that contain reuteri, salviarius, and Bifidobacterium for the best results. Alternatively, try to eat your fair share of plain yogurt if you would prefer a more natural approach.
Hydrate
Forgetting to drink water throughout the day can cause significant problems in relation to your teeth. For example, it can lead to dry mouth, which can encourage bacteria build-up. Remember, saliva is important as it washes away bacteria before it has a chance to cause any lasting damage to your enamel. So, drink up at every possible opportunity. Proper hydration is fantastic for your oral health, but for your health in general!
See your dentist at least once a year
Even if you aren’t experiencing any pain or dental concerns, it is advisable to schedule a check-up with your dentist at least once a year. That way, he or she can detect any potential problems or concerns before they can impact the strength and appearance of those pearly whites!
Healthy lifestyle, stronger teeth – it truly is as simple as that!