According to the Australian Dental Association, "Our eating habits play a major role in tooth decay, which is a diet related disease. Sugars in the food and drinks we eat are taken up by bacteria, producing acids that attack the outer layer of tooth enamel to cause decay.
"Our saliva helps our teeth recover from these attacks through a process of neutralising the acids."
Food and drinks for healthier teeth
Milk and cheese
Consuming dairy increases the production of saliva which helps to neutralise the acids in your mouth. Saliva also helps to remove any leftover food, while calcium protects teeth enamel.
Apples
The crunchy exterior of an apple helps clean your teeth while the malic acid increases saliva production.
Pineapple
According to The List: "A study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene found that bromelain is an effective ingredient in a stain-removing toothpaste.”
Broccoli
When eaten raw, broccoli can help remove surface stains and plaque that leads to cavities. The iron found in this popular vegetable also helps protect teeth enamel.
Water
Drinking more water can make a massive difference when it comes to looking after your pearly whites.
"It's calorie free, there are no ingredient labels to stress over, and it’s almost free," The Australia Dental Association says on their website. "Even better, tap water in most areas of Australia contains fluoride, one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to help prevent tooth decay."
