Posted: March 17, 2016
After a long winter season of sugar-filled holiday treats and beverages, and a wintery diet low on fresh foods, spring arrives to give us a change in weather and a chance to start eating different types of food to optimize our dental health. When choosing your spring-time diet or when planning this season's garden, keep in mind the following foods (your teeth will thank you):
- Blueberries. With the most antioxidants among fresh fruits and vegetables, blueberries' polyphenol antioxidants neutralize free radicals that can lead to stress and cell breakdown and can have a preventive effect against oral cancer.
- Strawberries. Not only do strawberries contain malic acid (a natural enamel whitener), they also have all those little seeds that act as natural scrub brushes while you chew. Make sure to floss after eating these berries as those same seeds can easily become stuck in your teeth.
- Leafy greens. Not only do leafy greens such as spinach contain vitamins, minerals, and calcium to build enamel and keep your teeth healthy, eating them is conducive to a clean set of chompers. All that chewing generates saliva, which helps to wash away food particles; the greens themselves double as scrubbers, too.
Choosing healthy options such as fresh fruits and vegetables helps your entire body, teeth included. Make them a part of your overall dental health regimen along with regular checkups with the experienced dental team at the Center for Cosmetic & General Dentistry.
For more information on general dental health or to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Sussman or Dr. Pogal in Rochester, contact our experienced and compassionate dentists at the Center for Cosmetic & General Dentistry at 585-227-4390. We have been serving patients in Upstate New York for nearly 35 years.
