Dr. Steven Okamoto and Dr. Michelle Okamoto use modern technologies to enhance and restore patients’ smiles. What many patients don’t know, is the simple solution to a healthier smile may be hiding somewhere unexpected – in their pantry and medicine cabinet.
When our patients seek ways to improve their oral health, one of the simplest adjustments they can make is altering their diet to improve nutrition and ingest more vitamins and minerals.
Calcium
Teeth and jaw bone are primarily comprised of calcium, which makes this supplement critical to your oral health. Foods high in calcium include:
- Dairy
- Broccoli
- Leafy green vegetables
- Sardines
- Almonds
- Oysters
Vitamin A
More commonly recommended for improving eyesight, Vitamin A also aids in oral health by promoting salivary production and preserving healthy mucous that eliminates harmful bacteria. Foods containing large amounts of vitamin A include:
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Kale
- Spinach
- Peppers
- Egg yolks
- Fish
Vitamin B works to fight off inflammation and soft tissue sores. In the event that you’re suffering from either, increasing your Vitamin B intake can help expedite the healing process. Foods high in vitamin B include:
- Poultry
- Fish
- Red meat
- Dairy
- Spinach
- Almonds
- Legumes
Vitamin D improves the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Without an adequate amount of Vitamin D, you run the risk of teeth under-developing or experiencing decay. Vitamin D can be found in the following foods:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Cod Liver Oil
Potassium benefits the body by inhibiting substances that promote the breakdown of bones, as well as aiding in blood clotting. Patients concerned with obtaining enough potassium should consider eating the following foods:
- Legumes
- Squash
- Yogurt
- Milk
- Cheese
- Bananas
- Avocados
Ask Okamoto DDS about Diet and Nutrition Tips for Better Health!
Our whole team is committed to the preservation of your oral health and can provide plenty of tips to get your smile back on track, beyond simple brushing and flossing tips. Want to learn more methods of improving the health of your smile? We welcome you to read some of our other articles, or contact our office today to schedule your New Patient Appointment.
