We all know that a well-balanced diet is important for your health, but many don’t realize just how important it is to your teeth and gums. A diet low in nutrition will make it harder for your mouth to fight infection, including cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.
Foods high in carbohydrates, sugars and starches can create an environment that that promotes the production of acids that harm the tooth enamel, which can eventually lead to cavities. Eating starches and sugars along with a meal will increase their degenerative effects.
Those starchy and sweet foods like pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries, chips, cookies, and others are especially common at events in the fall and are staples for football watch parties and tailgates.
It turns out it is entirely possible to choose healthy snack alternatives that will help you keep strong, clean, and healthy teeth. Some healthy snack options include:
- Cheese: Cheese helps raises the pH in your mouth and helps prevent tooth decay, probably by increasing saliva. Cheese also contains calcium and protein, building blocks of tooth enamel.
- Yogurt: Yogurt also has calcium, and the probiotics in the yogurt help protect your gums because the good bacteria crowd out the harmful bacteria.
- Leafy greens: Okay, so no one struts into a Super Bowl party and asks “So where is the kale?” But it is often possible to find a salad with kale and spinach, or other opportunity to consume some of the healthiest foods you can eat, like the spinach dip. Kale and spinach are not only high in calcium, they also contain a good serving of folic acid, which is good for you gums and many other things.
- Apples: Apples are sweet, but they are also high in fiber and water.
- Carrots and celery: Pretty much available at any tailgate or holiday party are celery sticks, carrots and other healthy snack options that are much better for you than chips or pretzels. They can provide that satisfying crunch that you look for in a good snack, without the guilt.
- Almonds: Almonds are the perfect food: high in nutrition and fiber and relatively low in calories.
Schedule a Cleaning or Checkup Today
So, where there are snacks and appetizers, there is still hope. You can find healthy snacks that will satisfy your cravings and still won’t cause damage to your teeth. Eating the right foods, along with routine visits to the dentist can ensure that you don’t get cavities and your mouth stays healthy.
Be sure to schedule your next checkup and cleaning with our friendly team at Babylon Dental Care by calling (631) 983-2937 today.
