Searches for fibre has reached 1.9 million in the UK over the last three months, with many interested in the benefits it offers for gut health. However, we should also consider the benefits it offers oral health too.
As published by Dentistry, fibremaxxing can have significant benefits for oral health.
Saliva flow
Fibre-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables require lots of chewing, helping to stimulate saliva flow. This is beneficial as it:
Each of these factors help to protect the health of the teeth, and prevent enamel wear.
Sugar consumption
Fibre rich meals which are more filling make it less likely that individuals will graze on sugary snacks during the rest of the day. This, therefore, reduces the levels of decay and plaque build-up.
By reducing a person’s habitual surgery snacking, through a balanced diet, the risk of tooth decay and gum disease can be reduced.
Natural cleaning
Further to this, high-fibre foods offer a way to naturally clean the teeth and mouth whilst chewing. Often, raw vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds can act as natural cleaners, with the crunchy, coarse textures of foods like raw carrots, for example, scrub the teeth during chewing. This can both stimulate saliva and dislodge debris in the mouth.
Of course, this does not replace actual toothbrushing and interdental cleaning, but can help to support good oral health and hygiene during the day.
Since you’re here, why not read about putting in a shift?
Main image credit: Unsplash
