Did you know that there are certain foods that you can eat which help to clean your teeth? They are known as "detergent foods." In dentistry, we look at the impact of food in three ways: the kind of food, how often it is eaten, and when it is eaten. Detergent foods should be the last piece of food you consume during a meal for the best results. Think of them as the closest you can get to brushing your teeth.
A healthy diet is important for oral health as well as overall health, but here are some particular foods that can help clean your teeth and mouth:
- Carrots
- Apples
- Celery Sticks
- Popcorn
- Cucumbers
- Pears
- Lettuce
- Cheese
As you can see, detergent foods are usually firm and crisp. They act like scrubbers on and around your teeth and gums. They also bring your mouth's pH back to 7.0, which is optimal. Always remember, these foods are not a replacement for brushing and flossing. You still need good dental hygiene regardless of what you are eating!
If you have any questions or are in need of an appointment, call our dental office at 918-455-0123!
God Bless,
Dr. Thomas