For Dental Health and Wellness Boston, May is men’s month! This month we will be focusing on men’s health and dental issues, as well as highlighting what Boston dentist Dr. Jill Smith can do for even the most masculine smile. When it comes to guys, one discussion topic rises to the top: food! Today, Dr. Smith shares an article from Men’s Health Mag about some everyday snacks that could help keep your smile healthy and fresh:
Cheese
Though relatively high in calories (about 113 for a 1-ounce cube of cheddar), cheese has been shown to strengthen your teeth and protect them against staining. Here’s how it works: Excessive acid in your mouth can cause erosion of your enamel, which can lead to sensitivity, pain, and darker teeth. But eating cheese before a glass of wine, a sip of cola, or a bite of a tomato can help neutralize that acid. “The advantage of cheese is that the fatty film that leaves on your enamel after you ingest it protects you against acids and stains,” explains Dr. Laura Torrado, D.D.S., F.A.G.D.
Broccoli
A 2010 lab-based study in The European Journal of Dentistry showed that after being exposed to an acidic drink like cola, enamel erodes half as quickly when exposed to broccoli beforehand. Researchers explain that the iron in broccoli may help form a protective acid-resistant film on teeth.
Pears
Many fruits, like lemons, limes, oranges, and most berries, are actually quite bad for your teeth because they’re high in acid. Pears, on the other hand, are terrific for them. A South African study measured the acidity of plaque and found it became less acidic after eating a pear. Not only do they have a high water content—which helps dilute the sugar—but they also stimulate the flow of saliva, buffering your teeth against acid.
Sugarless Gum
Chewing gum helps dislodge food particles that become lodged between your teeth. Just make sure to choose a type like Trident that has the sugar substitute xylitol. Unlike other sugar substitutes, xylitol can’t be broken down into an acid by bacteria in your mouth.
While these are all helpful tips for caring for your smile, when it comes to healthy teeth – nothing beats the professional care that comes from a dentist. At Dental Health and Wellness Boston, Dr. Jill Smith and her talented team of professionals can do more than simply clean your teeth. As a Boston Dentist with a whole body approach to dental health, Dr. Smith has all the services and procedures to make you feel as good as your smile looks. Some of the specialized services include dental care for cardiac health, acid reflux, damaged teeth from eating disorders and so much more. Schedule a free consultation today to talk to us about getting your smile in great shape!
For more on what DHWB can do for you:
An Affordable Dental Plan for a Healthier You
Sedation Dentistry for Anxiety Sufferers
