While milk from animals was once the only option we had, there is now a wide range of alternatives. Cashew, almond, oat – the list is ever-expanding! Since many of us grew up hearing that drinking milk would make our bones and teeth strong, you may be wondering if the same can be said for milk made from things like plants and nuts. Continue reading to learn which milk is best for your teeth!
So, Which Type of Milk Is Best for Your Teeth?
As previously mentioned, people have thought of cow’s milk as being a smile-friendly beverage for a long time. This is because it contains calcium and vitamin D, two things that contribute to strong, healthy bones and teeth. Even so, milk from cows isn’t the only type that contains these vitamins and minerals.
Both vitamin D and calcium can be found in milk alternatives, such as soy milk. It’s worth noting that the quantities are much lower in soy milk than they are in cow’s milk. With that being said, people who don’t drink cow’s milk can still help re-mineralize their tooth enamel to help prevent decay by drinking alternatives.
Don’t Like Milk? Here Are 6 Calcium-Rich Foods to Enjoy
Not everyone is a fan of drinking a glass of milk with their meal. Fortunately, there are several foods that contain plenty of calcium to promote a healthy, strong smile, such as:
- Leafy greens, including collard greens, spinach, and kale
- Cheese, with parmesan having the most calcium
- Beans and lentils
- Canned salmon
- Frozen yogurt
- Flour tortillas
- Edamame
- Almonds
- Rhubarb
- Sardines
- Yogurt
- Tofu
- Figs
5 Additional Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Along with incorporating milk or the above foods into your diet, some other ways that you can keep your smile in good condition include:
- Visit your dentist – Attend checkups and cleanings every six months to catch oral health issues early on and keep your smile in good condition.
- Brush your teeth – Do this once in the morning and once at night for two minutes each time.
- Floss your teeth – Floss every night and rinse with mouthwash daily to get rib of food particles and bacteria in areas you can’t reach.
- Maintain a healthy diet – Keep your consumption of sugar to a minimum and eat plenty of foods that are good for your teeth, like dairy, lean meat, fish, nuts, and fresh fruits and veggies.
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits – This includes drinking excessively, smoking, chewing on ice or other objects, and using your teeth to open packages and bottles.
About the Practice
Dr. Robert Nicholas Slezak and his team at Hilltop Family Dental offer patients a wide range of exceptional treatments from the comfort of their Chardon dental office. Patient care is their top priority, and they aim to make you feel well cared for from the moment you enter their practice and every moment after that. If you need additional help caring for your smile, they can give you helpful information on how milk and other foods and drinks promote healthy teeth. Call Hilltop Family Dental at (440) 285-8211 or visit their website for more information or to schedule an appointment.