Foods To Keep The Dentist Away

Foods To Keep The Dentist Away
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine]Joseph Devine

We've all heard the saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" but what many people don't realize is that selecting foods which are good for teeth will keep the dentist away. No one enjoys a visit to the dentist or a root canal procedure. No one enjoys sitting in the waiting room reading copies of gossip magazines from three years ago. So why not choose foods that are good for teeth?


One reason people don't choose foods which are good for their teeth is that people don't realize what is good for their teeth. Important things to look for in foods are calcium, fiber, and whole grains. Generally speaking though, if people stick to the food guide pyramid, their teeth and the rest of their body will be healthy.


Calcium


Calcium is good for one's teeth as it helps in their growth. This mineral is essential for growing children whose permanent or adult teeth haven't fully formed yet. Calcium can be found in a variety of dairy products. Calcium in dairy products isn't found in the fat portion of the milk. This means that skim and other forms of low fat milk products will have just as much calcium as a milk product based on whole milk.


Fiber


Fiber is a very important part of one's diet. In addition to making the stomach feel full which reduces eating in general, it keeps saliva flowing which allows for a mineral defense in the mouth. This defense reduces tooth decay. Fiber can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. It is particularly common in dried fruits like dates, raisins, and figs. Not dried fruits such as bananas, apples, and oranges also are a good source of fiber. Vegetables such as baked beans, Brussels sprouts, and peas are great sources of fiber. Nuts such as peanuts and almonds, in addition to being a good source of protein, have fiber as well.


Whole Grains


Whole grains are more important for gum health than tooth health. This is not to be diminished though because what good are healthy teeth if there is nothing to hold them in place? Whole grains provide Vitamin B and iron which are both important for the health of gums. In addition, they are an excellent source of magnesium which is necessary for bones and teeth health. Also, whole grains are just better overall than non whole grains. Foods made from whole grains include a variety of breads, not white rice, and other cereals.

If you would like more information detailing how to keep your teeth healthy, please visit http://drbagai.com/Procedures2.aspx

Joseph Devine

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Foods-To-Keep-The-Dentist-Away&id=1189183] Foods To Keep The Dentist Away