Fruits and vegetables are great for your general health. They offer vitamins and nutrients that are vital to your body. But did you know that some fruits can also help keep your teeth healthy? The following fruits, when eaten regularly, can keep your teeth healthy and prevent dental issues.

Apples

A crisp, juicy apple is one of the most refreshing snacks you can eat. However, biting into the fruit may not be completely benign for your teeth. While the fiber in apples can help increase saliva production in your mouth, the high sugar content can be detrimental to the health of your gums. If you do eat an apple, be sure to brush or rinse your mouth after consuming the fruit to keep decay at bay. (Tip: Don't peel the apple before eating it because the skin contains beneficial antioxidants.)

Strawberries

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which strengthens tooth enamel and aids the body in healing after oral surgery. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron and produce collagen–proteins that aid in wound healing during dental implant placement and periodontal treatment.

The high concentration of malic acid found in strawberries has antibacterial properties that can whiten teeth. This acid has long been used as a natural remedy for gum inflammation. When combined with baking soda, oat bran, or salt, the malic-acid content of strawberries can also help remove surface stains from your teeth. You can also rub the fruit on your teeth for one minute before brushing. Because of its acidic nature, you should rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize your saliva and prevent tooth erosion.

Celery

For a snack with a healthy dose of vitamin C, look no further than celery! The fibers in celery help remove food particles from between teeth and along the gum line for fresher breath and a clean mouth. These fibers also help stimulate the production of saliva. Studies have even shown a link between eating celery and lower levels of bacteria in the mouth.

Chewing celery also massages your gums. This stimulation helps both increase blood flow to your gums and remove plaque buildup. This helps to prevent gum disease. Just be sure to cut your celery into bite-size pieces before snacking on it regularly to avoid damaging your teeth or gums.

Kale

This leafy green vegetable is a great source of fiber and vitamin C, both of which promote healthy teeth and gums. Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen, which is an essential component of connective tissues. This means that it plays a key role in wound healing. Fiber promotes the production of saliva, which washes away food particles after eating and keeps the mouth clean in between brushings. As a result, it can decrease your chances of developing cavities due to tooth decay. You can eat kale raw or sauté it with vegetables for a healthy side dish. You can also mix it into smoothies to provide an extra boost of nutrients!

Pineapple

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which acts as a natural stain remover for your teeth. Eating pineapple after a meal can help to naturally clean your teeth while refreshing your breath. It also helps to reduce inflammation around your gums and can aid in reversing gum disease. If you want to add a bit of flavor to your yogurt or oatmeal in the morning, try adding a few chunks for some added sweetness! You can also cut up the pineapple into cubes and add them to a salad for a tasty burst of freshness.

At Dynamic Dental Services, we offer the best dental care possible to each of our patients in a positive and relaxing environment. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at (773) 538-6191 or visit us at 5401 S. WENTWORTH AVE. #200, Chicago, IL 60609.