You’ve probably heard that watermelon is great for weight loss. What you may not know is that watermelon is also great for your teeth. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best things you can do to protect your teeth aside from regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the orthodontist. Watermelon is high in vitamins and antioxidants that support your gums and teeth while the high water content helps rinse your mouth to prevent bacteria. Here’s why watermelon is so great for oral health.
Watermelon: Nature’s Toothbrush!
Watermelon supports healthy teeth and gums in two ways: it’s naturally rich in fiber, which means it scrubs your teeth as you eat. The high water content also triggers the production of saliva. This cleanses your mouth of food particles and bacteria while cleaning your teeth.
Watermelon is also high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent gum disease. Inadequate vitamin C promotes receding gums and bleeding gums, which can eventually develop into the gum disease gingivitis. Vitamin C also works to inhibit the formation of tartar and plaque on your teeth.
While it’s no replacement for regular brushing, eating watermelon is an easy and enjoyable way to support healthy teeth and gums. Watermelon is especially beneficial for patients with Invisalign or traditional braces who may have trouble brushing thoroughly.
Watermelon Cannot Replace Orthodontic Care
While it’s important to focus on a nutritious diet to support healthy teeth and bones, even the best diet is no excuse to avoid regular dental check-ups. If you want to do everything you can to protect your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment with Nease & Higginbotham Orthodontics. Your orthodontist will recommend steps you can take to protect your oral health, including changing your diet or orthodontics like braces and Invisalign to straighten your teeth and while improving your dental health.
