Summer is approaching quickly and it will usher in a new season of fruits, veggies, and other foods. Have you considered which summer foods are best for your dental health when you’re on the lake, at a picnic, or on the road?
Here are some common summer foods that are good for your teeth.
Fruits
Many fresh summer fruits will soon consume the produce section of the grocery store. Here are some great ones to support your dental health.
Keep in mind that the fruits listed are acidic, and can break down the enamel of your teeth. When snacking on these fruits, wash them down with a glass of water or eat them with low-acid foods, like a handful of almonds.
Apples
While most apples are harvested in the fall, there are a few varieties that are ripe during summertime.
- Lodi Apples
- Gala Apples
- Yellow Transparent Apples
- Jersey Mac Apples
- Earligold Apples
Eating an apple stimulates the flow of saliva, working to wash away food particles and bacteria. Apples are high in water content, which helps dilute the sugar they contain. Their tougher texture also stimulates your gums.
Strawberries
Rich in Vitamin C, strawberries help reduce inflammation and provide collagen, a protein that helps fight periodontal disease. This fruit also contains calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
Peaches
This classic summer fruit contains fluoride, an important mineral for dental health. Fluoride helps remineralize and rebuild enamel, while strengthening your existing enamel. This ultimately helps prevent cavities from forming.
Peaches are also full of Vitamin C, helping reduce inflammation. They also contain calcium, strengthening bones and teeth. Make sure you remove the pit before eating a peach because chewing on a pit can damage your teeth.
Leafy Greens
A popular leafy green during the summertime is butter lettuce.
This type of lettuce contains Vitamin A, which forms tooth enamel. It also has small amounts of calcium, strengthening your bones and teeth.
Cheese
Like fruits and veggies, there are seasonal cheeses as well. Sheep and goats produce milk only in the spring and summer, making these cheeses the freshest summer choices:
- Mozzarella
- Goat Cheese
- Feta Cheese
- Ricotta
The protein and calcium in cheese help strengthen your bones and teeth. It’s believed that the action of chewing cheese also stimulates saliva production, washing away the food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Meats & Fish
Firing up the grill is a great summer activity, but it’s also a great move for your dental health. Meats are rich in protein, which contains phosphorus. This helps strengthen your teeth and jaw. Choose lean meats, like chicken and turkey, to maximize the health benefits of your summer cookout.
Fatty fish (salmon or trout) contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found in studies to lower the risk of developing gum disease.
There are many different kinds of foods and snacks that promote dental health. Avoid sticky foods that are hard to clean off your teeth and don’t snack on sugary foods throughout the entire day (exposing your teeth to sugar all day).
Remember to brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and visit the dentist every six months.
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.