A: We wouldn’t recommend you swapping out your toothbrush for a stalk of celery – but yes, crunchy vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, broccoli and cucumbers help clean teeth and gums because of the increased chewing it takes to break them down. They are natural abrasives and eating them scrubs your teeth in a natural and harmless way.  Leafy greens contain calcium and folic acid which are good for teeth and gums.

There are a few other foods that are beneficial to your oral health:

Onions contain antibacterial sulfur compounds. Tests show that onions kill various types of bacteria, especially when eaten raw.

Eating cheese can raise the pH of the mouth, leading to a lower risk of tooth decay.  The calcium and protein in cheese strengthen tooth enamel.

Low sugar foods such as celery and almonds also protect teeth by producing saliva which neutralizes acid that causes demineralization and cavities.

Fruits such as apples, strawberries and kiwis contain Vitamin C. This vitamin is considered the element that holds cells together. If this vitamin is neglected, gum cells can break down, making gums tender and susceptible to disease. Vitamin C also helps fight inflammation in your gums.

Just be careful when eating acidic fruits as the acid and sugar in such foods can cause softening of the enamel.

Brush up on your oral health routine: Schedule an appointment at our Garden City or St. Vital locations today!