8 Fall Foods that Can Boost Your Oral Health

Autumn is one of the best seasons of the year. The temperatures decrease, the leaves on the trees turn beautiful shades of orange, yellow, and red, and the fall holiday season begins.

For many, the best part of the fall season is the holiday foods. These foods include sweet pies, rich sauces, and flavorful main courses. However, it can be hard to ignore the impact that these fall foods have on a person’s oral health.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy all of your fall holiday favorites, you might just have to think out of the box. Below you’ll find a list of fall foods that are proven to be able to boost your oral health.

8 Fall Foods That are Good for Your Oral Health

Apples

Apples are considered fibrous fruits, meaning they contain trace amounts of healthy fiber for a balanced diet. Eating fibrous fruits can help to clean your teeth and increase salivation.

Saliva neutralizes both citric and malic acid that is found in your mouth after eating. It also helps to wash away pieces of food left in your mouth after eating. Apples can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as apple pie.

Citrus Fruits

Like apples, citrus fruits are fibrous. Eating citrus fruits can also increase saliva production, which neutralizes acid in the mouth. Citrus fruits can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as spiced orange cake and citrus fruit salad.

Carrots and Celery

Not only are carrots and celery fibrous, but they also contain large amounts of beta carotene−which is used to create vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is vital for building strong teeth and gums. Carrots and celery can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as thanksgiving stuffing and chicken soup.

Potatoes and other Root Vegetables

Potatoes and other root vegetables are also fibrous and full of beta carotene. Eating potatoes and other root vegetables such as onions, garlic, and beets, can help to build strong teeth and gums. Potatoes and other root vegetables can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as roasted sweet potatoes and mashed potatoes.

Kale

Eating leafy green and dark vegetables improve oral health because they contain the mineral phosphorus. In addition to kale, eating asparagus, chard, lettuce, and spinach will allow your teeth to store the much-needed phosphorus to help your body absorb both magnesium and calcium. Kale and other cruciferous vegetables can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as holiday kale salads and kale madeline.

Pumpkins

Pumpkins contain both fiber and magnesium. Eating foods high in fiber helps to rub excess food from the surface of your teeth. Foods high in magnesium are crucial to your oral health because the magnesium works together with calcium to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Pumpkins can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as pumpkin pie.

Blueberries, Cranberries, and Raspberries

Dark-colored berries, such as blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries, have been found to carry natural compounds that can help fight off the mouth bacteria that cause tooth decay and plaque. Dark-colored berries can be found in your favorite holiday dishes, such as a holiday berry trifle and berry cobbler.

Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese

We all know that milk, yogurt, and cheese contain high amounts of calcium. Calcium is vital for strong bones and strong teeth. Milk, yogurt, and cheese also contain high amounts of casein, which is a protein that is helpful in strengthening tooth enamel. Dairy can be found in your favorite holiday dishes such as eggnog, holiday puddings, and charcuterie boards.

See also: No Tricks, All Treats: Tips for a Cavity-Free Halloween

It’s true that all of these foods are good for your oral health, but that doesn’t mean you can skip your dental visits! If you are looking for an affordable dentist in Lafayette, LA look no further than Gina Liggio Maestri DDS Family Dentistry.

We offer preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services to children and families. To schedule an appointment, click the link below or give us a call at 337-704-2126.

Sources:

https://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/eat-fruits-and-veggies-for-a-healthy-smile/