An Avocado a Day, and Other Surprising Foods That Keep the Dentist Away

HealthJuly 9, 2021

Raise your hand if you hate going to the dentist – the good news is you are not alone. Most of us are so scared of this trip that we put off going to the clinic until we can’t bear the pain anymore.

Having a healthy mouth should be seen as important as having a fit body. This is because what you eat also affects your oral health, Dr. Steven Lim said, and added that ensuring you have a balanced diet is one way to take care of our pearly whites.

Healthy Diet for a Healthy Mouth

We brush our teeth, floss, and use mouthwash – that’s how you clean your mouth. However, it doesn’t end there, the expert shared.

While mouthwash kills the bacteria to prevent diseases, we need to eat to diversify the kinds of organisms in our mouth. The dentist went as far as to say that food is the most basic way to prevent dental illnesses because if we get the right nutrients, our bodies will have the capability to fight off infections on their own.

Superkitina/Unsplash Brushing isn’t the only way to keep a clean mouth

Contrary to popular opinions, wearing braces doesn’t root from genetics rather it is a nutritional problem. It signifies that the jaws of a person didn’t grow the right way, also seen as the reason behind impacted wisdom teeth.

Foods to Avoid

As such, our diet plays a huge role in our oral health. When it comes to what to avoid, the dentist touts refined flour as problematic for our mouth.

Pixzolo Photography/Unsplash Refined flour should be consumed in moderation

Flour, which is usually found in white rice, pasta, and bread, acts just like sugar, the main enemy of our teeth, in the body. As such, you should eat this group in moderation and if you can, opt for the healthier variety such as wholegrains.

Food to Munch On

Avocado is one of the most versatile fruits because you can eat it on its own, add milk for a creamy dessert, or turn it into a salad dip. As such, it is one of the favorites as well – another reason to hoard it is that it strengthens our pearly whites.

Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash Avocado is good for your mouth and gut

That is because avocado is rich in prebiotic fiber that provides the good kind of bacteria in your gut and mouth, thereby promoting not just good digestion but also better oral health. If you’re eyeing more fiber content, go for the Hass variety than the Florida.

On top of avocados, foods that need chewing are also good for your teeth, so munch on raw veggies, nuts, or fruits. This isn’t just beneficial for your oral health but also for your overall wellbeing.