Healthy Summer Snacks for Your Teeth
With the official start of summer on June 21st, it’s tempting to reach for the nearest ice cream treat you see when you want a snack. However, all of the sugar in those treats can lead to a buildup of bacteria inside of your mouth, ultimately causing decay or even cavity formation. To avoid this altogether, you can keep sugary snacks to a minimum and instead opt for snacks that are both filling and healthy! Here are some snacks recommended by our Chicago dentist.
Seeds
Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds and chia seeds are all great for your health, including for your teeth. Some benefits of the listed seeds include iron, anti-inflammatory properties, and Omega-3 fatty acids. You can also combine multiple seeds together to make your own healthy trail mix.
Apples
One way to raise the pH level in your mouth in a healthy way is by eating an apple. Plus, apples have a high water content that helps wash away built-up bacteria inside of your mouth. You can think of apples like a natural toothbrush! The fiber-rich skin from an apple can also help get rid of particles on your teeth.
Celery
Ants on a log, anyone? Celery is one of the best foods for your teeth because it has vitamin A and vitamin C, both healthy for your teeth and gums. You can also snack on raw carrots, as they have a lot of fiber and can increase your saliva production, in turn decreasing your risk of future oral problems.
What are your favorite healthy snacks?