Independence Day, commonly referred to as the 4th of July, celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Many families celebrate with a BBQ or meal outside, especially in Texas.

 

Here are 5 foods and beverages you should include in your July 4th celebrations that are both delicious and good for your dental health.

 

Plenty of Water

Water is always the best choice for your dental health. Without any harmful components, water helps rinse your mouth of food particles.

 

Most tap water has been fluoridated, and this is beneficial to your dental health. Fluoride helps remineralize your enamel, which is why it’s earned the title “nature’s cavity fighter”.

 

 

If you infuse your water with summer fruits, make sure to offer a pitcher of plain water as well. Fruit is acidic, so rinsing your mouth with a regular glass of water will help protect your enamel from the acids.

 

Burgers on Whole Wheat Buns

Meat is good for your dental health because it contains a lot of phosphorus.

 

In order to maximize the benefits of calcium, which keeps your bones strong, you need phosphorous.

 

Make sure to serve your burgers on whole wheat buns. Whole-grain foods are better than white bread for your teeth. They don’t stick to your teeth as much as white bread does, and it takes longer for bacteria to produce acids using whole grains.

 

 

Cheese Tray

Cheese is a great option for your dental health. The act of chewing the cheese stimulates saliva, which helps rinse your mouth of food particles and bacteria.

 

Cheese also helps neutralize acidic foods and beverages.

 

The calcium and protein in cheese help strengthen your bones (important for your jaw bone) and your enamel.

 

 

Celery

Celery almost acts as a natural floss. The stringy vegetable helps unwedge food particles from in between your teeth and scrape away the bacteria that coat your teeth (in the form of plaque).

 

Celery is packed full of Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

 

Vitamin A helps maintain good salivary flow and keeps your gums healthy. Vitamin C helps prevent gum inflammation by building and repairing connective tissue.

 

 

Yogurt Parfait

Yogurt is good for your dental health. Like cheese, yogurt contains calcium and protein to help keep your enamel strong.

 

Yogurt also has beneficial bacteria. This helps control the bad bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. Ideally, choose a yogurt without any added sugar.

 

For a festive dessert, make yogurt parfaits with blueberries and strawberries, topped with almonds. Almonds (along with other types of nuts) have calcium and protein, which help keep your teeth and jaw strong.

 

 

For more information or to schedule a dental appointment, contact Greenspoint Dental in Houston, Texas. We are dedicated to providing you and your loved ones with the best dental care.

 

Everyone here at Greenspoint Dental wishes you and your family a happy and healthy July 4th.