Patients will often overlook the importance of their diet as it relates to the health of their mouth, and not just the size of their waists. To help you make some healthier picks for both of these issues, below we have suggested some of our top picks for a healthier dental diet.

Water: everyone’s favorite drink to stay hydrated is also a top pick for excellent oral health. Water helps stimulate saliva, which can help protect the teeth, and also assists with speech and digestion. Water also has the ability to get in between the teeth seamlessly, so can also wash away any lingering or stuck food particles left over there too.

Whole Grain: white rice or brown? Whole grain bread or white? By choosing the whole grain option in these and so many other examples, you can be adding a boost of vitamins and nutrients to your diet that helps out your smile. Not to mention, by choosing these over the starchy white counterparts, you are also cutting down on the amount of sugar you take in, which can lessen instances of decay.

Veggies: dark, leafy veggies, in particular, are best here. Think bok choy or broccoli, both with an ability to add some calcium to your diet, which helps strengthen and protect your smile. They also can pair nicely with the last example too…

Dairy: anyone for broccoli and cheese? Yes, cheese, yogurt, low-fat milk and more can also add calcium to your diet, besides being tasty. Calcium helps strengthen the gums, teeth, and bones that hold them in place too.

For more information on choosing dietary items that benefit your oral health, schedule a visit with your Syracuse NY dentist Dr. Justiniano today by calling (315) 475-4559.