In addition to regular practices like brushing teeth, using dental floss, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can protect your bright smile through the foods we consume daily.
1. Celery:
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| Strong teeth contribute to a beautiful smile (Image: nobelbiocare) |
The fiber in celery acts like a toothbrush, sweeping away most food particles stuck between your teeth.
Additionally, chewing celery stimulates saliva production, helping to balance the pH in the mouth and eliminate most cavity-causing bacteria.
2. Tomatoes:
The calorie count in a tomato is very low, which is why many people use tomatoes as a food to “trick” their stomachs into feeling full.
The high vitamin C content in tomatoes helps protect gums from oral diseases such as gingivitis, bleeding gums, and loose teeth.
People who often eat out or have high-pressure jobs can carry a tomato to snack on when they feel hungry after lunch or when their spirits are low.
Tomatoes can be replaced with other fresh fruits and vegetables such as various greens and red or yellow fruits.
3. Green Tea:
Green tea has many benefits, one of which is its ability to prevent cavities. The catechins in green tea eliminate bacteria that multiply in the mouth while also freshening breath.
Depending on individual preferences, it’s recommended to drink 2-5 cups of green tea per day, ideally after meals or after consuming sweets. Green tea also contains caffeine, so pregnant women should limit their intake.
4. Celery:
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Celery (Image: muivi) |
The compounds in celery can kill many types of bacteria, including those that cause tooth decay.
Eating celery helps to prevent cavities, lower cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, and boost the immune system.
It’s recommended to consume half a stalk of celery daily, with fresh celery being the best choice.
5. Shiitake Mushrooms:
Some studies have found that the Lentinan compound in shiitake mushrooms inhibits harmful bacteria for the teeth.
Each type of shiitake mushroom has its own unique flavor and is easy to cook with, making it a great choice for daily meals.
It’s advisable to include shiitake mushrooms in your meals 2-3 times a week.
6. Water:
Water is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your teeth. An adequate amount of water each day will keep your gums moist and stimulate saliva production.
On average, a person should drink 6-8 cups of water daily. If you can’t brush your teeth immediately after eating, a glass of water will help “rinse away” leftover food particles stuck to your teeth.
