You are what you eat, and this adage stands perfectly true when it comes to maintaining a good dental hygiene as healthy food choices can help in preventing tooth decay. Just like every part of the body your teeth and gums need proper nutrition to function at the best. Foods rich in calcium, minerals, probiotics and foods that help in producing saliva can boost your oral hygiene and also protect the enamel of your teeth. So, this time before you decide to write down your grocery list do not forget to add the following foods to actively promote dental hygiene.

1. Leafy Greens: Leafy greens are full of vitamins and minerals; they should be a part of your diet due to their various health benefits. Leafy greens like spinach, kale and lettuce are a rich source of folic acid and B vitamins. You can add these leafy greens to your salad or make it into a green smoothie.
2. Tea & Nuts: Unsweetened black tea and green tea can prevent tooth decay as they contain plaque fighting ingredients. Tea also contains polyphenols which have numerous health benefits. Similarly including almonds and cashews in your diet is good for your teeth as it is a rich source of calcium & protein, which is beneficial to teeth and gums.
3. Lean Protein: Lean protein like fish, eggs, meat and tofu are a great source of phosphorus and protein that help in protecting the teeth enamel.
4. Eating fibrous food: Including foods that are rich in fiber is another great way of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. For example chewing on an apple can stimulate your gums and reduce cavity-causing bacteria and increasing saliva flow.
5.  Water: Drinking water, especially if it contains fluoride can be of great help to keep your teeth in the perfect shape.

Including these foods to your diet can improve your dental hygiene. Additionally adopting healthier habits like limiting products high in sugar content like soda as well as limiting snacks high in carbohydrates can promote dental hygiene and prevent tooth decay.