You are what you eat, as they say. But while you aren’t literally a carrot or pear, the phrase does have a lot of truth to it. After all, what you eat does become a part of your body, and thus the better foods you choose, the healthier you’ll be. If you’re looking for some easy ways to spice up your next meal and protect your beautiful smile holistically at the same time, here are 5 delicious herbs and spices that have powerful oral health benefits!
Rosemary
Rosemary is a surprisingly good source of calcium. In fact, just one tablespoon has 4.2 percent of your recommended daily dose! So don’t be shy about adding a dash here or there to everything from your favorite meats, salad dressings, and even baked potatoes, and your teeth and bones will stay strong and healthy, too!
Garlic
Though not technically a spice, garlic can immediately improve the flavor of many dishes and is a popular staple in cuisines from around the world. It also has many oral health benefits, including antibacterial and antiviral properties that protect your mouth against infection and bad bacteria. Just don’t forget to brush your teeth afterwards!
Holy Basil
Holy basil or “hot basil” is a common ingredient in many Asian dishes, especially in Thailand. In addition to being delicious, it also boasts a variety of astringent properties that not only fight dangerous oral bacteria, but also reduce bad breath and cavities, too.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been making waves online as being a tooth-whitening hack. Unfortunately, while it doesn’t really do much to help brighten your smile, it does have many other excellent oral health benefits, including the power to reverse precancerous conditions for patients with oral cancer, and some studies have found that it may be more effective than store-bought mouthwash at freshening breath and protecting teeth.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon itself doesn’t do anything special for oral health, but studies have shown that just a half teaspoon a day can help regulate your blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sugar and carbohydrates. The dangerous oral bacteria that are responsible for painful cavities and gum disease happen to love feasting on these types of foods, so the less you eat them, the lower your risk of oral health troubles later.
Remember, herbs and spices can add flavor to your favorite meals, and a healthy boost to your teeth and gums. Try these five delicious options to help improve your smile naturally and make every meal a celebration!
About Dr. Ghandi
Dr. Khushboo Ghandi earned her dental degree in India, where she worked as a general dentist while earning her oral diagnosis and pathology education. In 2009, she and her family relocated to Murphy, where she worked as a dental assistant. In 2011, Dr. Ghandi began the advanced education program for international dentists at the Oklahoma College of Dentistry and returned to Murphy after graduation.
Despite her vast education and skillset, Dr. Ghandi still takes continuing education classes at Baylor College of Dentistry each year and is also an active member of Spear Education who is certified in both Invisalign and nitrous oxide. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Texas Dental Association.
To schedule an appointment for any type of dental care at Murphy Dental Home, please visit our website or call us today at 972-532-6506.