If you want to prevent cavities, you should make sure that you’re getting plenty of exposure to fluoride. This tooth-strengthening mineral is found in all ADA-approved toothpastes, and many cities add it to their water supply. However, you may not realize that many of the things you eat and drink every day can also be great sources of fluoride. To help you protect your smile, here’s a closer look at the importance of fluoride and some of the foods and beverages that contain it.
Why is Fluoride Important for Oral Health?
Fluoride plays an important role in protecting your teeth from decay. Every day, the acids produced by harmful oral bacteria cause the enamel on your teeth to lose minerals; fortunately, it’s possible to get some of these minerals back through a process known as remineralization. The main function of fluoride is to aid with remineralization, thus improving the enamel’s resistance against decay-causing bacteria.
What Foods and Beverages Contain Fluoride?
There are plenty of foods and beverages that can be considered good sources of fluoride. Here are just a few common examples:
- Grapes and Grape-Based Products: Not only do grapes naturally contain high amounts of fluoride, but they are quite versatile. There are plenty of grape-based products, such as raisins and wine, that can help you meet your fluoride needs. (Just be careful when it comes to wine, as it can stain your teeth if you’re not careful.)
- Other Kinds of Fruit: Grapes aren’t the only type of fruit with fluoride. The mineral can also be found in apples, strawberries, bananas, peaches, and watermelons. Remember, fruit tends to be at its most nutritious when it’s fresh.
- Vegetables: There are plenty of vegetables that are known to contain fluoride, with spinach and potatoes being prime examples.
- Seafood: Fluoride can be found in the ocean, and it’s naturally absorbed by the animals that live there. Thus, various kinds of seafood, such as shrimp and crab legs, can be great options for those looking to increase their fluoride exposure.
- Tea and Coffee: If you make your tea and coffee with tap water, the finished beverage will be an excellent source of fluoride. (Note that, just like wine, tea and coffee can leave stains on teeth, so try to avoid drinking them too frequently.)
Are you looking for ways to get more fluoride on a regular basis? It may be helpful to talk to your dentist during your next checkup. They will be more than happy to find ways to help you improve your diet and keep your smile safe.
About the Practice
Here at Neighborhood Dental – Brandon, our dentists have been bringing quality care to our patients for decades. We’re proud to be able to provide a wide range of services for creating healthier, brighter smiles. We offer various forms of preventive care, including fluoride treatments for strengthening teeth. If you are interested in scheduling your next checkup at our office, visit our website, use our online scheduling tool, or call (605) 582-6522.