Easter season is imminent! This means it’s a time for annual traditions, family time, and more. Indeed, it’s fine to indulge in chocolate or candy-filled eggs in moderation when paired with proper oral hygiene.
However, the humble chicken egg is a superfood filled with vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients. Whether you like your eggs fried, deviled, or scrambled, Dr. Matt cracks down six justifications for why eggs are an exceptional choice all year long.
Protein
While it’s crucial to consume an adequate amount of protein in your diet, it’s equally important to ensure that you are fueling with the correct type of protein. Eggs are a complete protein, containing nine essential amino acids that the human body needs to survive.
For example, proteins are required in the body to help build and repair damaged or worn down tissues and muscles. This includes the connective tissues and our mouths, such as the tongue, the jaw muscles, and gums.
Phosphorus
Furthermore, protein (especially animal-based protein) contains a remarkable mineral called phosphorus. When combined with calcium and vitamin D, phosphorus plays a vital role in strengthening the teeth and bones.
Selenium
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, one to two eggs every morning can help your child reach their recommended dietary allowance for selenium. Even in small amounts, selenium supports many bodily processes. Also, an increase in this potent antioxidant has been linked to a decrease in cavities in children and young adults.
Calcium
Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body, and 99% of our body’s total calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. Specifically, calcium is responsible for:
- Strengthening enamel (the protective outer shell of our teeth)
- Preventing dental decay
- Stabilizing the jaw bone, which keeps our teeth in place
Ideally, people should consume at least 1,000 mg of calcium daily, and eggs are a wonderful non-dairy source of calcium. The more calcium you consume, the stronger your teeth and bones will get. Likely, this translates to fewer cavities, less tooth damage, and other horrible dental issues.
Conversely, if a person does not get enough calcium in their diet, dental problems may occur, such as:
- Gingivitis and periodontal disease
- Brittle teeth
- Tooth decay
Vitamin B-12
Whole eggs are rich in vitamin B-12. Also known as cobalamin, vitamin-B-12 aids in red blood cell formation and cell metabolism. Regrettably, cobalamin deficiency can deteriorate oral health. B-12 deficiency has been coupled with various manifestations, including abnormal tongue and gum tissue.
Iron
Did you know that eggs are a great source of iron? Each egg contains 1.89 mg of iron, which helps keep the teeth and gums in tip-top shape.
However, when the body does not get enough iron, a person may develop anemia. Unfortunately, people who suffer from anemia are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease.
Is it time to book your child’s next dental appointment? If so, hop to it.
This weekend, let the Easter egg hunts commence! But don’t forget to indulge in your hard work by sitting down and cracking open a few eggs for a tooth-healthy treat.
Contact our Overland Park, KS office if it’s time to schedule your child’s next kid’s dental appointment. Call us at (913) 685-9990, or send us a message online.
FAQs
Each egg contains 1.89 mg of iron, which helps keep the teeth and gums in tip-top shape. However, when the body does not get enough iron, a person may develop anemia. Unfortunately, people who suffer from anemia are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease.
Are scrambled eggs good for your teeth? ›
Foods like meat and eggs are also good for your teeth: They are high in protein and have a mineral called phosphorous, which rebuilds the enamel that protects your teeth. Another food group that can strengthen your teeth is fruits and vegetables.
Are eggs good for mouth ulcers? ›
In addition, eggs contain selenium, which heals oral lesions and cures oral ulcers. The protein in eggs are also beneficial to the teeth. Protein is required, as well for mucosal tissue development. Protein significantly contributes to the health of the teeth.
Do eggs prevent cavities? ›
Eggs are surprisingly good for teeth as they contain vitamins D and K, and phosphorus. That said, using crushed eggshells to repair teeth, is an old wives tale. If you believe that you may have a cavity, or that your teeth are damaged in any way, see a dentist.
Is there a natural way to reverse periodontal disease? ›
Proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, can go a long way in preventing and reversing gum disease. Additionally, using an antibacterial mouthwash can help kill bacteria that contribute to gum inflammation.
How I cured my periodontal disease? ›
Gum disease isn't curable, but it's manageable with appropriate treatment. You can't cure it because once you lose structural support around your teeth, you don't usually get all of it back. However, periodontal treatment can reduce infection and rebuild your bone and tissue to some degree.
Do eggs Remineralize teeth? ›
The shell contains sufficient calcium to remineralize your teeth as well as 27 other important minerals.
Is banana good for your teeth? ›
Banana is one of the best fruits for your teeth. Not only does it stimulate saliva production, but it also helps clean away leftover food particles on your teeth after a meal. Bananas are a source of vitamin B6, which the body needs to produce antibodies. These antibodies help prevent gum disease.
What is the fastest way to heal swollen gums? ›
Immediate treatments for sore or swollen gums
Rinsing mouth with saltwater to get rid of bacteria. Applying warm compresses to reduce gum pain. Applying cold compresses to reduce gum swelling. Drinking plenty of water to stimulate saliva production.
Which toothpaste is best for mouth ulcers? ›
Why Squigle is the best toothpaste for Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers. SQUIGLE toothpaste has 36% by weight of Xylitol – to profoundly inhibit the growth of plaque. Plaque can cause mouth ulcers. The more Xylitol in your toothpaste, the less plaque buildup in your mouth.
Among the foods recommended for people struggling with oral mucositis are:
- Scrambled, poached, or boiled eggs.
- Canned tuna fish.
- Stewed meats.
- Soft noodles and pasta.
- Well-cooked white rice.
- Mashed vegetables, including potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, etc.
- Creamed spinach or corn.
- Creamed or pureed soups.
Orange is a great source of Vitamin C, which can prevent and aid mouth ulcers. However, consuming a whole orange may be difficult when you are suffering from these ulcers. A great remedy for mouth ulcers is to drink two glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice every day.
Should you brush your teeth after eating eggs? ›
Consider that to save your smile, you'll need to try and wait at least 30 minutes after consuming your breakfast before brushing to avoid damage to your enamel.
What kills cavities in teeth? ›
Use fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that can prevent tooth decay from progressing. It can even reverse, or stop, early tooth decay.
Is Butter good for your teeth? ›
You might not think of good health when it comes to eating butter, but it's actually one of the best foods for healthy teeth. The saturated fat in butter releases hormones that keep you full, satisfied, and won't spike your blood sugar. Butter is also a good source of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and Vitamin K2.
What foods reverse gum disease? ›
Nuts and seeds with high omega-3 content
They are particularly useful because they have anti-inflammatory properties and help to reverse gum diseases. Sources of omega-3s include pistachios, macadamia nuts and sesame seeds. They also serve as excellent sources of nutrients too.
What is the best thing for periodontal disease? ›
If periodontitis isn't advanced, treatment may involve less invasive procedures, including:
- Scaling. Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and below your gumline. ...
- Root planing. Root planing smooths the root surfaces. ...
- Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection.
Scaling and Planing
One of the biggest steps that patients have to take in reversing periodontal disease is through processes called scaling and planing. These are both done by the dentist and are done to remove the plaque and tartar that has gone below the gum line.
How can I save my teeth with periodontal disease? ›
Yes, depending on the severity of the gum disease, teeth affected by periodontal disease may be saved. Scaling, root planing, and antibiotic therapy can help reduce inflammation and slow the progress of periodontal disease. Surgery may sometimes be required to repair and restore the lost tissue and bone.
