Healthy and Unhealthy Snacks for the Teeth

Brushing and flossing are an important part of the dental health puzzle as we all know, but your diet can play an equally important role, also. Choosing more healthy foods and fewer unhealthy foods can help you avoid cavities, tooth decay and other common dental problems. 

1. Chocolate

Chocolate is often seen as a delicious indulgence, but the right kind of chocolate can also boost your dental health. Dark chocolate, or chocolate with at least 50 percent cocoa content, is a great source of antioxidants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins.

2. Popcorn
Whole grains are good for your body and contain nutrients that are critical to dental health. However, skip the uncooked popcorn kernels and other hard foods that can chip, crack or fracture teeth.

3. Sour treats

Candies and gums are usually high in citric and malic acids, which can erode the enamel on your teeth. If you have a craving for something on the sour side, infuse some water with slices of lemon, lime or oranges instead of choosing candies or gums.

4. Sticky foods
Caramels, toffee and dried fruits, such as raisins, stick to the surface of your teeth. Your saliva will not be able to easily wash these away. The sugar that these foods contain then feed oral bacteria, which release acids that attack the dental enamel, eroding teeth and increasing the risk of decay. Skip these foods entirely and reach for some fresh fruits or vegetables instead.

Call us today to find out more or to schedule an appointment with our dentist.

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