Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth

The foods you eat and drink have a direct effect on your oral health. Indulging in Valentine's Day candy and other sweets throughout the year can do a lot of damage that your dentist will have to fix.

Instead, why not focus on the best foods and drinks for your teeth? Your oral health is directly related to the health of the rest of your body, so be sure to take care of it and see your dentist regularly. Consider the following dental health advice provided by the American Dental Association.

• Apples, carrots, and other starchy fruits and vegetables. They encourage saliva production.
• Dairy products provide calcium and Vitamin D. Choose milk products such as cheese and yogurt without added sugar.
• Water is always the best beverage choice, including fluoridated tap water where available.
• Certain teas, such as black and green can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
• Sugar-free chewing gum. Make sure it contains xylitol, which fights tooth decay.

Damaging foods can stain your teeth, as well as cause plaque buildup and cavities.

• Candy and any sticky food. Fruit snacks are a dentist's nightmare.
• Sugary snacks like cookies, cakes, and other desserts.
• Sugary juices and soft drinks.
• Coffee and dark sodas, which stain teeth.
• Foods made of simple carbohydrates, such as starchy bread, pasta, and chips.