Pick Up These Teeth-Friendly Snacks the Next Time You’re at the Grocery Store
The next time you’re picking out snacks at the grocery store, California Dental Group would like to remind you to stock up on options that are good for your teeth. Not only is this important for adults, but it’s smart for parents to model these good behaviors for their kids. Here are some of the top treats we recommend.
Lots of fruits
Fruits are of course an important part of your diet and help you stay in shape. However, some can actually be bad for your teeth if you eat them too much. Specifically, fruits that are high in citric acid can stain and erode the teeth if they’re eaten in excess. However, apples, lemons, strawberries, and pineapples can actually keep your teeth free from bacteria.
In fact, pineapples actually have an enzyme known as bromelain that breaks up plaque. As an added bonus, pineapple stimulates the body to product saliva, which is the natural way of cleaning your mouth. Apples on the other hand, have a great texture that’s almost as good as brushing your teeth. Note we said almost – it’s still important to follow good oral health practices.
Foods that neutralize acids
If you’re worried about all the acid that can be found in fruit, you have the option of snacking on foods that can neutralize that acid, like cheese, sesame seeds, and even ginger. Calcium, which is found in most dairy products like milk and cheese, is essential when it comes to health teeth and bones. Milk and cheese have the added bonus of neutralizing acid and scrubbing teeth clean. Lactic acid, which is in many cheeses, can help prevent tooth decay. Finally, ginger can get rid of bacteria that leads to gum disease.
Some teas and gums
Many people think of tea and gum as bad for your oral health, but they can actually do wonders as part of your plan to keep your teeth healthy and clean. Black and green teeth both have polyphenols, which help slow down bacteria that leads to cavities and gum disease, and it even helps slow down plaque growth. These types of tea also have catechin, which is an antioxidant that has been shown to prevent bacteria from growing.
Not all gums are good for you, but you can look for the American Dental Association’s approval on the pack. These are the best choices and will help to boost saliva and get rid of food stuck between your teeth. Of course, any gum with sugar in it is going to be bad for your teeth.
Do you have other questions about how to take great care of your teeth? If you do, give California Dental Group a call at (800) 407-0161. We are here to help you and look forward to working with you.
