Here is an interesting fact; people who drink soda every day have 62% more tooth decay than other people. From a very young age, parents and teachers try to teach their children the basics of oral health. Brush your teeth after every meal, floss daily and don’t eat candy. But did you know that what you eat and when you eat also plays a significant role in dental health?

 Just like eyes are the windows to the soul, teeth are the windows to your health. The first sign of malnutrition shows up on your teeth when they become weak and brittle. Periodontal disease is mostly caused by a lack of certain minerals and vitamins. For optimum oral health, you must have a healthy dose of proteins, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, folate, antioxidants, iron and all vitamins.

Here are some of the best foods and drinks you should take for optimal oral health;

1.    Dairy products

Milk and its products are the richest sources of calcium. Calcium is essential for strong and healthy bones as well as teeth. A glass of milk or cheese provides not only calcium but also enough protein to stabilize and repair tooth enamel. If you are not lactose intolerant, milk products are perfect for your oral health, and they neutralize the acids that erode your enamel. A study by the American Academy of General Dentistry shows that cheese raises the PH levels in your mouth and lowers the risk of decay. Cheese is not only delicious and tasty on pizza, but it can help keep away those cavities.

2.    Fermented foods

Fermented foods are full of amazing bacteria and probiotics that are good for your health. These probiotics also fight the bacteria in your mouth and neutralize the acids. You can try Greek yoghurt, kefir and kombucha if you want to enjoy good bacteria and reduce the growth of pathogens in your mouth. There are also other foods you can ferment like cabbage and garlic with honey to get stronger healthy bacteria.

3.    Leafy green vegetables

There is a reason why leafy greens like kale, spinach and broccoli show up on every health food list. They are full of vitamins, antioxidants and calcium that will build and protect your teeth enamel. Leafy greens also contain folic acid and vitamin B, which is known to heal gum disease. If you are not a fan of eating leafy greens on the side, you can add them to your morning smoothie or add some baby spinach on your salad. Greens are best eaten raw so you can get the full nutrients and also benefits from the cleansing power of the leaves in your mouth. Coconut

Coconut oil has been a miracle cure for everything under the sun, and that includes tooth decay. A process called coconut oil pulling has been used for centuries to detoxify your mouth using coconut oil. Tooth extraction and implant same day are the ultimate solutions to a tooth that is completely damaged. However, coconut oil can save you the night before you go to the dentist by relieving the pain. You swish a spoonful of coconut oil as you take your morning bath, and it sucks all the toxins from your teeth and creates a clean, antiseptic environment. After 20 minutes or so, you should spit out the coconut oil because it’s full of toxins.

4.    Green tea

Green tea is one of the richest sources of antioxidants in the world, and it’s full of polyphenols. These antioxidants reduce toxic products in your mouth and kill bacteria. Green tea is also rich in fluoride, the best tooth strengthener, so you are assured of strong, healthy teeth. A study conducted by the University of Illinois shows that rinsing your mouth with black tea for one minute reduces plaque buildup than rinsing with water. Black tea and green tea also work wonders against halitosis or bad breath by suppressing the production of harmful bacteria that cause your mouth to smell.

5.    Crunchy vegetable and fruits

Most people like to snack in between meals to avoid feeling sluggish. Instead of reaching over to get some crackers and chips, you should get some chewy vegetables or fruits. Apples, carrots, celery and pears are among the best snacks you can have between meals. Not only are they natural and nutritious, but they also stimulate a lot of saliva in your mouth that washes away all those toxic products. Since these fruits are also hard, you will be exercising your teeth and jaw as well.

6.    Meat and eggs

Meat and eggs contain high levels of protein, iron and phosphorous required for rebuilding and protecting tooth enamel. Ideally, you should take an egg every day and a serving of chicken, lean beef or fish. High protein foods also increase collagen production, which is good for your teeth.

7.    Nuts

All types of nuts are loaded with proteins, vitamins and minerals that will keep your teeth healthy and strong. Almonds, peanuts, cashews and walnuts are also full of omega-3 fatty acids that support healthy gums. Since they are very crunchy and hard, you have to chew them considerably and produce a lot of salivae which will clean your mouth. You can have a handful of nuts as a snack during break time or always have a bowl sitting on your desk for when you feel hungry. However, nuts are also full of fat, so you should not overdo it.

8.    Raisins

Most people use raisings in pastries and salads because they are naturally sweet. However, raisins also contain phytochemicals that kill bad bacteria and reduce plaque. You should make raisins a part of your everyday meal because their sugar is all-natural. A handful in your smoothie, salad or just sprinkled over your cereal will do.

The right foods for your teeth should be natural and not processed. Staying away from sugar, carbohydrates, and other processed foods are not only going to save your teeth but also your entire body. However, it’s still important to do what your mother taught you. Brush and floss every day and don’t forget to take eight glasses of water.