Did you know that it’s possible to make your teeth healthier by choosing snacks that are good for your smile? Normally when we think about food and teeth, we think about the foods that are bad for our teeth. That’s only half the story! There are also foods that will greatly benefit the strength and health of your teeth. We’ve put together a list of snacks that you can keep in your fridge or pantry for those late afternoon snack attacks!
1) Crunchy Fruits and Veggies
Fresh fruits and vegetables, that have a crunch to them, are great for your teeth! The crunch means that the food is firm, which means it will rub against your teeth while you chew. This allows it to “brush” your teeth. At the same time, that extra crunch will increase saliva production, which helps rinse bacteria and food particles from your teeth.
2) Lean Protein & Hard Cheese
Protein and cheese are very important for your teeth. While you chew, a process called remineralization occurs. Your saliva begins to break down the food and immediately starts putting the minerals from your food into your tooth enamel! Phosphorus and calcium are extremely important for healthy teeth, so it’s great to get them while you snack!
3) Plenty of Water
Skip sugary drinks! When you’re looking for a thirst quencher in the middle of the day, reach for the water, especially if that water is fluoridated! Sweet tea, sodas, sweetened coffee, and juice will all bathe your smile in sugar. If you want one of these beverages, drink it while you eat a meal so the food can removed some of the sugar and acidity from your mouth. Drink water during the rest of the day for a happy, healthy smile!
We’re used to thinking about our waistline when we reach for a snack, not our smile. We think if you take a look at this list, you’ll see that the same foods that are great for your smile are also great for your waist! Build a smile-friendly snack box in your home. Your family will thank you for it! For more great tips, come see us! Contact us today to set up your appointment!
