How can fruits help improve oral health?

PUBLISHED: https://www.boldsky.com/health/how-can-fruits-improve-oral-health-know-the-benefits-146386.html?story=4

‘Have fruits if you want to lead a fruitful life. ‘

The benefits of fruits for your overall health cannot be emphasised enough. Good oral health is a reflection of a sound body; your mouth is the entry point for all you eat or drink. Hence, what nourishes the body will also be healthy for the mouth. How can fruits help improve oral health has been discussed for ages, but there are a few unique characteristics of certain fruits that could be a magical potion for your teeth! Fruits are not only scrumptious but also healthy. While fruits can help promote good oral health, it's vital to keep in mind that a balanced diet and regular dental hygiene practises are equally important.

How can fruits help improve oral health?

• Natural Cleansing due to the High Fibre Content

Fruits like guavas, apples, pears, and jackfruits have high fibre content, making them excellent natural cleansers for your teeth and gums. When you bite into a crunchy fruit, the act of chewing stimulates salivary production. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away residual food particles and plaque. This mechanical action dislodges plaque buildup and germ growth, promoting cleaner teeth and healthier gums.

• Increased Saliva Production

The increased flow of saliva on having hig fire and citrus foods like oranges, sweet limes, and muskmelons, helps cleanse the mouth by washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, preventing bad breath, and remineralizing tooth enamel.

• Balances the Oral pH

Maintaining a healthy pH balance (acidity and alkalinity balance) in the mouth is vital for oral health. Certain fruits like watermelons, mangoes, and papaya have minimal acid content. They can help neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and create an alkaline environment that prevents bacterial growth. This can help prevent tooth erosion and enamel damage, which are often caused by over-consumption of citrus fruits.

• Antioxidant-Rich

Many fruits are rich in antioxidants like blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries. Antioxidants prevent damage from free radicals that are detrimental to the gums and mouth tissues. Additionally, they have anti-inflammatory qualities that can help minimize the incidence of gum disease. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants strengthens the body's immune system against disease, prevents mouth infections, and boosts overall oral health.

• Nutrient-Rich

Fruits are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support oral health. Vitamin C for instance, helps in collagen formation that keeps the tissues in the gums strong and healthy. Oranges, strawberries, kiwis, and papayas are high in vitamin C. Stronger gums do not get inflamed, do not become soggy and sore, and do not bleed.

• Natural Teeth Whitening

Malic acid, an enzyme in some fruits like strawberries, serves as a natural bleaching agent. Malic acid aids in the removal of surface stains from teeth. It's crucial to remember that consuming acidic fruits in excess might destroy dental enamel along with the process of stain removal. Consequently, eat such citrus foods in moderation.

Takeaway

Now that you know how can fruits help improve oral health, try replacing your daily snacks with a nice bowl of fruits and see the magical health benefits. Fruits provide many benefits, but regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups should not be ignored. In order to protect the enamel, it's also important to include fruits in a well-balanced diet and to avoid citrus ones. You will see a healthy smile by combining a balanced diet, good oral hygiene, and routine dental care.