Your oral health requires daily commitment in order for you to remain healthy. Going to the dentist twice a year for cleanings and brushing your teeth twice a day provides a good foundation for your oral health. You also have to moderate your diet to support your oral health. You hear a lot about the things you should not eat, but there are also foods that are very good for your oral health. You may eat some of these foods very often already. Here are four foods that are very good for your oral health.

Oranges

Vitamin C boosts your immune system, and it is also beneficial for your gums. A recent study showed that periodontitis, a form of gum disease, is linked to low levels of vitamin C in the bloodstream. Vitamin C is abundant in citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, and clementines. Oranges can be enjoyed during any time of day, and are also easy to have as a snack. If oranges are not to your taste, then you may want to try red bell peppers, which are also high in vitamin C.

Green tea

A study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that drinking green tea is good for your gums. In the study, the group of patients who drank green tea reported a decrease in the symptoms of gingivitis, such as inflammation of the gums and bleeding of the gums upon probing. On the other hand, patients who were not in the tea drinking group reported suffering from the hallmark symptoms of gingivitis.  

Garlic

Garlic is often added to dishes to provide them with extra flavor. It is also very beneficial for your oral health due to its antimicrobial properties. A study showed that garlic displayed antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria that causes tooth decay. Garlic can be added to various savory dishes, such as pastas, soups, and stews.  

Cheese

Dairy products help to strengthen your bones as well as your teeth. Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and milk are high in phosphorus and calcium. These minerals are deposited into your teeth when they lose mass. Your teeth may lose mass from mechanical stresses or from the degradation of the enamel from acid attacks. Dairy products are also helpful for balancing the pH in your mouth because they are basic; therefore, they can counteract some of the effects of acid in your mouth.  

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