For strong and healthy teeth, include apples, carrots, walnuts and others in your daily diet

Health benefits of carrots: High in fibre, carrots encourage saliva production, which helps neutralise cavity-causing acids (Image: Canva)

If you love a smile that radiates happiness from within, free from dental issues, then you should know that maintaining good dental health is essential. Dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity can impact not just your smile, but also your oral health. Common symptoms of dental problems include persistent tooth pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and swollen or red gums. These symptoms can be caused by poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugars or acids, tobacco use, or lack of regular dental visits.

Cavities are caused by bacteria feeding on sugars and producing acid that erodes tooth enamel. Gum disease often results from plaque buildup, which can lead to infection if not properly addressed. Other factors such as teeth grinding, dry mouth, or even genetics can contribute to these issues.

Being proactive with brushing, flossing, and a balanced diet, along with regular dental check-ups, can help prevent many of these common dental problems, says Dr Suman Yadav, Director of Maxillofacial & Dental department, Numed hospital, Noida, adding, “While regular care is essential, your diet plays a huge role in keeping your teeth and gums in top shape.”

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Dr Yadav shares how certain foods can make all the difference:

• Apples: Often called nature’s toothbrush, apples stimulate gums and help clean teeth.

• Carrots: High in fibre, they encourage saliva production, which helps neutralise cavity-causing acids.

• Leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach and kale are rich in calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel.

• Cheese: Packed with calcium and phosphate, cheese balances your mouth's pH and supports enamel repair.

• Yoghurt: Rich in probiotics, yoghurt promotes healthy gums and fights bad bacteria in your mouth.

• Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are full of nutrients that benefit both teeth and gums.

• Green tea: Loaded with antioxidants, green tea can reduce oral bacteria and protect against gum disease.

• Water: The best drink for your teeth, water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth fresh.