Crunchy foods and Dental health

You’ve probably heard that eating an apple a day will keep the doctor away but did you know they are also good for your teeth? As with everything else, there are good and not so good crunchy choices. There are actually dental benefits to incorporating crispy foods into your diet. Some of my favorite yummy options are apples and pears. They are an awesome workout for your mouth with all the chewing that goes on while you’re enjoying these tasty treats. All that crunching also can help clear away bacteria. Definitely a dental plus! Raw veggies also make a super choice because they stimulate saliva flow which is a natural defense against cavities and gum disease. Plus, they contain beta-carotene, which your body needs to make vitamin A, an essential nutrient for building strong teeth! Now, some of the not so good picks are: Crunchy snack foods like chips, crackers and pretzels. Parts of these foods can get stuck in your teeth. When the carbohydrates that they contain convert to sugar, they erode the enamel on your teeth. And the worst of the worst is hard candy. They typically stay in your mouth longer which gives the sugars extra time to stick to teeth and cause decay. Not good! Visit our office for a complete exam with Dr. Belof and a cleaning with our hygienist, Beth, to make sure your pearly whites are in great dental health. Call us today to schedule your visit! (813) 645-8300 or visit the website at www.apollobeachdentistry.com -Anita, Dental Assistant Extrordinaire