Wow! It’s hard to believe the first month of the year is already over! On this last day of January, we at Dr. Gharagozloo’s office are looking ahead to February which, although a short month, is packed with events. Not only do we have the Super Bowl to look forward to, we celebrate Valentine’s Day and in the dental world it happens to be Dental Awareness Month for both Children and Pets! Being that we love all these things, we will be posting interesting trivia and tips throughout the month.
Super Bowl Sunday is this weekend. That translates into eating and drinking all day–foods which are not just fattening, but also salty, acidic or sweet. This is a bad combination for your oral health.
We at your favorite Arlington dentist, Dr. Mary Gharagozloo, love to munch as much the next person. But perhaps, keeping a few of these tips in mind can make for better choices.
Apples, celery, and carrots. These crunchy foods help to remove plaque from teeth when you are unable to brush. (Not a substitute, mind you, but a decent alternative until you can get to your toothbrush. Also, rinse your mouth with water.)
Fruit. Sugars that occur naturally in fruits are less harmful to teeth than regular table sugar. But keep in mind that natural sugars such as honey, molasses, corn syrup, and raw sugar still do promote cavities.
Natural foods are best. Replace processed snacks with fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
Choose foods that aren’t chewy, sticky, and gooey, as these cling to your teeth the longest.
Raisins. Yes, they’re sticky and sweet, but research has indicated that raisins contain phytochemicals that discourage the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, as well as hinder the bacteria from clinging to teeth.
Unsweetened cereal. Obviously, better for teeth than sweetened cereal.
Baked tortilla chips, pretzels, whole grain crackers, and popcorn. You won’t find much sugar here.
Water. Okay, it’s not a food, but it does affect your teeth. Instead of drinking sugary drinks such as soda and juice, drink water and you’ll be rinsing your teeth as well as quenching your thirst.
Finally, if you must indulge in occasional sweets (chocoholics–dark is best), the best time to do so is along with a main meal, instead of between meals when the sugar can cling to your teeth more easily and longer. During mealtimes, saliva production is at a higher level, thus helping to reduce plaque build-up and prevent cavities.
Have a wonderful weekend and we hope YOUR team WINS!!!!
