Choose These Tooth Healthy Options When Ordering at a Restaurant
When you choose your meals at a restaurant, you may think of the health benefits of various foods but are you thinking of how they can affect your teeth? At California Dental Group we find that our clients often do not realize how simple it can be to make smart decisions that can help improve their oral health. Read on to learn about some of these decisions you can make and then contact us at (800) 407-0161 to set up a dental appointment.
Choosing the Right Drinks
You may think about how certain drinks are going to pair with dishes but are you thinking about how healthy those foods are for your teeth? Anything with a lot of sugar or that is particularly acidic can encourage tooth decay and cause your teeth to erode. Other drinks can potentially stain your teeth, such as red wine, coffee, and tea.
Remember that even diet drinks that do not have sugar can be high in acid, which can make your teeth more susceptible to damage. We suggest drinking water. If you are going to drink something that has the potential to stain or damage your teeth, resist the urge to brush immediately afterward, as it can actually do more damage. Instead, wait about 30 minutes between brushing.
Order the Right Salads
Salads are often the top choice of a person who wants to eat healthy, and they can be great for the health of your teeth and gums too. Leafy greens have a lot calcium and other nutrients that are good for your teeth, but the addition of other toppings can get you into trouble. Skip salad toppings with a lot of sugar, such as dried fruit.
Consider this Before Choosing an Entrée
If you are a meat eater, then look for poultry, fish, and egg options. Not only do they provide the protein you need but they are great sources of phosphorus too, which is a mineral that is essential to absorb calcium.
If you are vegetarian, choose veggies with tons of vitamins and minerals – which is just about any veggie you may find. Any veggie that is high in water and fiber content can help clean your teeth but crunchy veggies do an even better job. The crunchier they are, the more they stimulate your mouth to product saliva, which helps brush away any leftover bits of food.
Remember That Your Regular Dental Appointments Are Essential
It is important to take care of your teeth between dental visits but remember that it is not enough in itself. At your dental visits, we will use x-rays to find any issues below the surface. We will get rid of tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. We will look for signs of oral cancer, gum disease, and other conditions that are much easier to treat if found early.
