Five Best Fruits for Dental Health

Natural foods have the ability to nourish and heal, internally as well as externally. The health of our teeth is also determined by what we eat. 

Fruits play an important role in oral health. There are fruits that not only help clean your teeth but also keep them strong and healthy from within. 

In this article, our specialists at Impressions Dentistry in Gilroy, California, recommend five fruits to include in your diet and explain why they are good for your teeth. 

Fruits That Are Good for Your Teeth

Some of the best fruits for your dental health are:

• Apples

Apples have been found to stimulate the production of saliva, which is alkaline in nature. Saliva neutralizes the acids produced in the mouth after having carbohydrates. 

When eaten with the skin on, an apple acts as a natural scrub for your teeth, removing food debris, thus reducing the chances of plaque formation. The malic acid in apples can also help reduce stains.

• Watermelon

Watermelon is high in water content, which hydrates the mouth when you bite into chunky portions of the fruit. Watermelon is also rich in vitamin C needed for collagen for the gums and contains phosphorus, which works with calcium to strengthen the tooth enamel. 

Watermelons have malic acid too, which can have a lightening effect on the teeth.

• Pineapples 

Pineapples have a proteolytic enzyme called bromelain that can break down protein in the salivary protein sheath called the pellicle. 

The pellicle acts as a shield but also absorbs pigments from foods and drinks. Bacteria stick to it easily, causing plaque. Bromelain lessens the incidence of plaque-producing bacteria on the teeth. 

• Strawberries 

Strawberries are rich in nutrients and contain essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. The anthocyanins in strawberries protect the teeth against plaque buildup, while the malic acid can have a whitening effect on the enamel.

• Papaya

Papaya contains papain that breaks down the proteins in the pellicle on the teeth, reducing the chances of bacteria sticking to the teeth and causing plaque.

While having natural foods is a great way to help maintain the appearance of your teeth and the health of your gums, you cannot choose these over a good dental care regimen. These fruits can only serve as natural aids for the same, and professional help must always be sought for any ongoing issue.

For more information on the best fruits for your dental health, call (669) 327-5623 or visit Impressions Dentistry at 1325 1st Street, Gilroy, CA 95020.