Your mother always told you to “eat your vegetables.”  She said this because they’re stuffed with vitamins that are good for your body.  These vitamins help us grow, help fight off infection, and can even strengthen your bones and teeth.  Vitamin rich fruits and vegetables are a great way to keep your teeth healthy, and here are a few specifics you should consider before your next meal.

1)      Citrus Fruits
Vitamin C is often referred to as the “anti-cold” vitamin, considering its antioxidant properties.  In a similar way, it can also protect your gums from infection.  Research has shown that consuming appropriate levels of vitamin C decreases the likelihood for periodontal disease.  Include foods like oranges, pineapples, and broccoli into your diet and you will be well on your way to healthier teeth.

2)      Raw Foods
No, not raw chicken – but raw fruits and vegetables are a great way to clean your teeth and promote saliva production.  Processed items often include sugar which will rot your teeth over time.  Raw carrots, beets, cucumbers, or watermelons for example will clean your teeth and stimulate your gums.  Stimulated gums will help prevent periodontal disease, and the mastication process will produce debris clearing saliva.

3)      Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
Vitamin A builds strong bones and teeth.  The body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, to be used in the body.  Dark green leafy vegetables like kale, cabbage, or spinach contain high amounts of beta carotene.  Though not the greatest tasting perhaps, they do provide a very important service to your body.

Eating healthy and eating right aren’t always the easiest things to do.  Working to include as many fruits and vegetables into your diet as possible however will be a great step forward.  Here’s to your health!