Tooth-Healthy Foods for Fall

Autumn is here, and with it comes a great variety of seasonal foods, parties, and holidays. Here are some great ways to take advantage of the season for a tooth-healthy smile!

Dairy: Make sure you are getting plenty of dairy in your diet! Dairy foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are filled to the brim with calcium, which strengthens teeth. If you cannot have dairy products, be sure to include lots of other calcium-filled foods, such as dark leafy greens, tofu, and beans.

Fruits and veggies: There are lots of fruit and vegetable varieties available this time of year. Be sure to include a rainbow of colors. This will help make sure you are getting a variety of vitamins in your diet. Vitamins and minerals are vital for good mouth health.

Limit Sugars: The bacteria that live in your mouth feed off of simple sugars. They then convert this sugar into acid, which erodes the enamel in your teeth and gives you cavities. If you do choose to partake of sugary snacks, be sure to brush and floss extra carefully that day. As brushing directly after eating can be harmful to your teeth, try chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating to stimulate saliva flow and fight cavities! Saliva is your body’s first defense against cavities. It cleans the mouth and coats the teeth in fortifying substances.

Of course, a healthy diet should be supported by regular dental cleaning and visits to your dentist. If you are in the Park Ridge, Illinois area this fall, please call Family Dental Care Park Ridge at (847) 692.6800 to set up your appointment! Dr. Matthew Demas and our team look forward to keeping your smile bright.