A healthy diet doesn’t just benefit your body—it’s also essential for maintaining strong teeth and gums. Certain foods are packed with nutrients that support oral health, fight cavities, and keep your smile looking its best. Here are five foods that can boost your oral health and why they deserve a place in your diet.

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium and phosphorus, minerals that strengthen your teeth and bones. Cheese, in particular, can neutralize acidity in your mouth, reducing the risk of cavities. Additionally, dairy products encourage saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles. Opt for sugar-free versions to maximize their benefits.

Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery, act as natural toothbrushes. Their firm texture helps scrub plaque from your teeth while stimulating saliva production. Apples, often referred to as “nature’s candy,” are especially effective at cleaning teeth between meals and freshening breath. These foods are also high in water content, which helps dilute their natural sugars.

Leafy greens like spinach and kale are nutritional powerhouses for your teeth and gums. They’re rich in calcium, which strengthens enamel, and folic acid, a type of vitamin B that supports gum health. Incorporating leafy greens into your diet is easy—add them to salads, sandwiches, or smoothies for an oral health boost.

Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sesame seeds, and walnuts, are another great choice for oral health. They provide essential nutrients like calcium and healthy fats that support strong teeth. Chewing nuts also promotes saliva production, which helps prevent plaque buildup. Sesame seeds, in particular, gently scrub plaque off teeth while providing a mineral boost.

Lastly, green tea is a fantastic addition to your oral care routine. It contains catechins, compounds that help reduce inflammation and control bacteria in your mouth. Drinking green tea regularly can lower your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. For the best results, choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.

Incorporating these foods into your meals can be simple and enjoyable. Snack on yogurt or cheese, pack crunchy fruits and veggies for lunch, and sprinkle nuts or seeds onto your dishes for added texture and nutrition. Replace sugary drinks with green tea to reap its oral health benefits.

Your diet plays a vital role in the health of your teeth and gums. By adding these foods to your daily routine and pairing them with good brushing habits, flossing, and regular dental checkups, you can maintain a healthy, radiant smile.