Busting the Myths of Fluoride

Family Dentist in Alabama

There is a lot of debate surrounding fluoride. Some people believe that it is a miracle mineral that helps to improve dental health, while others think that it is nothing more than a dangerous toxin. So what is fluoride, and where does this controversy come from?

In this blog post, we will bust the myths about fluoride and take a closer look at this controversial topic.

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural element that can be found in rocks, soil, and even water. It has been used for centuries to help improve dental health, and today it is added to many public water supplies.

Fluoride works by strengthening the teeth and preventing cavities. When fluoride is added to water, it helps to create a protective barrier around the teeth that helps to prevent decay.

History of Fluoride

Fluoride has been used to improve dental health for centuries. It was first added to public water supplies in the United States in the 1950s, and since then, there has been a significant decline in cavities and tooth decay.

Should You Use Toothpaste With Fluoride?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes! Toothpaste with fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. The American Dental Association recommends that everyone use toothpaste with fluoride.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Fluoride?

There are some risks associated with fluoride, but they are generally mild. The most common side effect of fluoride is dental fluorosis, which is a condition that causes the teeth to become stained. Dental fluorosis is usually only a cosmetic issue and does not cause any pain or discomfort.

In rare cases, fluoride can also cause bone fractures. This is more likely to occur in people who have kidney problems or who take certain medications. For most individuals, fluoride is not only safe but incredibly beneficial.

Common Fluoride Myths

Despite the proven benefits of fluoride, there are still many myths and misconceptions about this element. Let’s take a look at some of the most common fluoride myths:

Myth #1: Fluoride is Poisonous

This is one of the most common myths about fluoride. However, there is no evidence to support this claim.

Fluoride is safe for human consumption and has been proven to be effective in preventing cavities and improving dental health.

Myth #2: Fluoride Causes Cancer

One of the common myths about fluoride is that it contributes to cancer. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. Several studies have shown that fluoride can help to prevent certain types of cancer.

Myth #3: Fluoride Is Bad for Your Bones

This is another common myth about fluoride. However, many studies have shown that fluoride helps to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.

Myth #4: Most Individuals Absorb Enough Fluoride Naturally

Fluoride is a very important mineral for dental health, and most people do not get enough of it through their diet.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all individuals over the age of six months receive fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities and improve dental health.

Myth #5: Fluoride Is Only Effective When Swallowed

This is yet another common myth about fluoride. However, fluoride is most effective when it comes into contact with the teeth through brushing or other means. Fluoride helps to create a protective barrier around the teeth that helps to prevent cavities and decay.

If you have further questions or concerns about fluoride or the use of fluoride in your dental care, please reach out to our team!

The Best Mouthwash for Periodontal Disease

Family Dentist in Alabama

If you are like most people, you probably don’t think too much about your mouthwash. However, if you have periodontal disease, using the right mouthwash is critical to getting rid of the bacteria that is causing your infection.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best mouthwash for treating periodontal disease and what causes this condition. We will also talk about how mouthwash can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Finally, we will warn you about some of the signs of periodontal disease so that you can get treatment as soon as possible.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. This plaque is made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Over time, the plaque hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar is very difficult to remove with brushing and flossing alone.

If tartar is not removed, it can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily. This condition is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

Types of Mouthwash to Use for Periodontal Disease

Two types of mouthwash can be effective in treating periodontal disease:

Antibacterial Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash contains ingredients that kill bacteria. These mouthwashes can help to reduce plaque and gingivitis. Examples of antibacterial mouthwash include:

  • Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash
  • Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Cleaning Rinse
  • Scope Outlast Long Lasting Mint Mouthwash

Anti-Inflammatory Mouthwash

This type of mouthwash contains ingredients that reduce inflammation. These mouthwashes can help to reduce swelling and pain associated with periodontal disease. Examples of anti-inflammatory mouthwash include:

  • Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse
  • Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sore Rinse
  • Colgate Peroxyl Oral Cleansing Rinse

 

If you think you may be suffering from periodontal disease, it is important to ask your dentist for mouthwash recommendations that are suitable for your unique situation.

How Mouthwash Can Help Periodontal Disease

Mouthwash can be a helpful tool in the treatment of periodontal disease. Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Mouthwashes that contain these ingredients should be used twice a day for best results. Be sure to follow the directions on the mouthwash bottle.

Can Mouthwash Cure Periodontal Disease?

Mouthwash can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, but it cannot cure periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a serious condition that requires professional treatment.

Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

There are several warning signs of periodontal disease. If you notice any of the following, see your dentist right away:

  • Swollen or red gums
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth

 

Periodontal disease is a serious condition, but treatment is possible. If you think you may have periodontitis, see your dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent the progression of periodontal disease.

Treating Periodontal Disease

If you are suffering from periodontal disease or have recognized one or more of the common warning signs, it is important to call our team today! Scheduling an exam is the only true way to diagnose and treat periodontal disease before it becomes a much more serious issue.

Proper oral health is essential for your overall health, so don’t delay in getting the treatment you need. We are here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment!

The Importance of Massaging Your Gum Line

Family Dentist in Alabama

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your gum health until there’s a problem. And by that time, it’s often too late.

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in the United States and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of massaging your gum line and how to do it properly. We’ll also cover some other tips for keeping your gums healthy!

Why Massaging Your Gum Line is Important

Did you know that massaging your gum line can help improve your dental health? It’s true! There are several benefits to regular gum massage.

Keep Your Gums Healthy

By massaging your gum line, you can help keep your gums healthy and free from disease. Massage helps to improve blood circulation in the gums, which can help them stay healthy and strong.

Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated. Massaging your gum line can help prevent gum disease from developing.

Remove Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums over time, leading to gum disease and other dental problems. Massaging your gum line can help remove plaque and tartar from your gums, helping to keep them healthy.

Reduce Inflammation

Massaging also helps to reduce inflammation, which can be helpful if you are already experiencing gum problems.

How to Massage Your Gum Line

Now that you know the importance of massaging your gum line, let’s learn how to do it properly. Here are a few tips:

  • Use gentle pressure when massaging. You don’t need to use a lot of force!
  • Massage for at least two minutes each day.
  • Use a circular motion, moving from the inside of your gum line to the outside.
  • Be sure to massage all areas of your gum line, including the front, back, and top.

Best Methods for Massaging Your Gum Line

There are a few different ways to massage your gum line. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Use your thumb and index finger to make circular motions around the gum line.
  • Massage each tooth individually, using circular motions with your thumb and index finger.
  • Use a toothbrush to massage your gum line, making gentle back-and-forth motions.

How Often Should You Massage Your Gum Line?

We recommend massaging your gum line at least once a day. However, if you are experiencing any problems with your gums, you may need to do it more often. Talk to your dentist during your next visit for specific instructions.

Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Massage Their Gum Line?

There are a few people who shouldn’t massage their gum line. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, or are on blood thinners, talk to your dentist before starting a gum massage routine.

Other Tips for Optimal Gum Health

In addition to massaging your gum line, there are a few other things you can do to keep them healthy:

  • Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco products.
  • Avoid eating sugary foods and drinks.
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day.
  • See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Prioritize Your Gum Health

We are passionate about providing our patients with comprehensive knowledge of maintaining their oral health. If you have any questions about massaging your gum line or how to keep your gums healthy, please don’t hesitate to ask our team during your next visit!

The Long-Term Effects of Soda on Teeth

Family Dentist in Alabama

If you’re like most people, you enjoy a cold can of soda now and then. But what you may not know is that drinking soda has some serious long-term effects on your teeth.

In this month’s blog post, we will discuss the dangers of drinking soda and how it can damage your teeth over time. We’ll also provide some tips for keeping your teeth healthy and free from the harmful effects of soda!

How Soda Affects Your Teeth Over Time

Soda is one of the most popular drinks in the world, but it’s also one of the worst for your teeth. Here’s why:

 

  • Soda is high in sugar and acid, which can damage your teeth over time.
  • The artificial sweeteners in soda can also cause tooth decay.
  • Soda is a major contributor to tooth erosion.
  • Drinking soda regularly can increase your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.

 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the long-term risks of drinking soda frequently:

Soda Can Lead to Cavities

One of the biggest dangers of drinking soda is that it can lead to cavities. The sugar and acid in soda can wear down your tooth’s enamel, making them more susceptible to cavities. 

Over time, drinking soda can lead to several dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even loss of teeth.

Soda Can Cause Gum Disease

Another danger of drinking soda is that it can cause gum disease. The sugar and acid in soda can irritate your gums, leading to inflammation and eventually gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and even heart disease.

Soda Can Cause Tooth Decay

Lastly, the most well-known danger of drinking soda is that it can cause tooth decay. The sugar and acid in soda create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to plaque build-up and tooth decay. 

If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to serious dental problems such as cavities and even tooth loss.

Protecting Your Teeth From Soda

So, what can you do to protect your teeth from the dangers of soda? Here are a few tips:

 

  • Drink water instead of soda. Water is healthy for your teeth and won’t damage them like soda does.
  • Avoid sipping on soda throughout the day. The sugar and acid in soda will have a greater impact on your teeth if you drink it slowly over time. Drink it all at once or not at all!
  • Brush your teeth after drinking soda. Brushing your teeth helps remove the sugar and acid that can cause damage to your teeth.
  • See your dentist regularly. A professional dental cleaning can help remove plaque build-up caused by drinking soda.

 

Soda is a popular drink, but it’s important to be aware of the dangers it can pose to your teeth. Does this mean you can never enjoy a bubbly beverage? No!  Just be sure to drink soda in moderation and take steps to protect your teeth from the damage it can cause.

By following the tips shared in this post, you can protect your teeth from the harmful effects of soda and keep them healthy for years to come!

The Benefits of Semi-Annual Dental Visits

Family Dentist in Alabama

Semi-annual dental visits are a crucial way to maintain good oral health and hygiene. They allow for in-depth cleaning, exam of the mouth and neck area, evaluation of any signs that may indicate gum disease or other concerns, and more.

For some people who have busy lives with little free time on their hands, this might seem like too much work. However, there are many ways that this practice will benefit your oral and overall health and wellbeing.

Top Benefits of Semi-Annual Dental Visits

There are countless benefits to semi-annual dental visits. A few of these include the following:

Prevention of Tooth Decay

Semi-annual dental visits help to prevent tooth decay from occurring in the first place. A deep cleanse and check-up can help to get rid of any bacteria or plaque that may be building up and causing damage to your teeth.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious condition that can often be treated successfully if it’s found early enough. By making semi-annual dental visits a part of your schedule, you’ll be helping to ensure that any signs of oral cancer can be detected before they become too serious or life-threatening.

Prevention of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common problem, and it can often lead to more serious health concerns if left untreated. This is because it can lead to heart disease and other serious health problems!

Semi-annual dental visits allow for a close examination of your gums, where plaque or bacteria may be hiding that can cause gum disease over time.

Achieve a Bright Smile

One of the best benefits of semi-annual dental visits is that you get to keep your smile looking bright and healthy! A deep cleanse and exam can help to remove any built-up plaque or stains, leaving your teeth looking their best.

Prevention of Bad Breath

Bad breath happens, but you don’t need to suffer with it because there are solutions to the problem! Semi-annual dental visits allow for an evaluation of your teeth, mouth, and tongue.

This is important because this can help to get rid of any bad breath-causing bacteria that may be hiding in these areas.

Oral Health & Hygiene Education

Oral health and hygiene education is a big part of semi-annual dental visits. A dentist will be able to teach you how to best clean your teeth, mouth, and gums at home so that bad breath doesn’t become an issue again.

They can also talk about what foods are better for oral health than others! If you’re serious about maintaining oral health and hygiene, this is one of the best benefits of semi-annual dental visits.

Prevention of Other Health Concerns

Because gum disease leads to serious health concerns over time, it’s important to make sure that you’re doing everything possible to prevent it. Dental visits are one way to do this!

In addition, other health concerns can be detected during a dental visit. This includes problems with your jaw, neck, and head. So if you’ve been feeling like something just isn’t quite right, it’s worth it to go in for a dental check-up and get some answers.

Schedule Your Next Appointment Today!

If you’ve been putting off your semi-annual dental visits, it’s time to rethink that decision! These visits are crucial for maintaining good oral health and hygiene, and they can help to prevent a variety of problems down the road. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today!

6 Tips to Combat Tooth Sensitivity

Family Dentist in Alabama

If you have tooth sensitivity, it can be difficult to eat well and enjoy the foods that you love. It is important to know how to combat tooth sensitivity so that your teeth won’t bother you when eating any food.

In this blog post, we are going to share 6 tips for combating tooth sensitivity so that your teeth don’t get in the way of enjoying all types of food!

1. Use Toothpaste to Your Advantage

If you have tooth sensitivity, try using toothpaste that is made for sensitive teeth. It will help form a barrier around the tooth that protects it from things like hot or cold food. You can also opt for a mouthwash that contains fluoride and potassium nitrate if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity.

2. Consume Tooth-Friendly Foods

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, try to avoid eating too many acidic or sugary foods because they can irritate your teeth even more! Foods like fruits and vegetables will help strengthen the enamel on your teeth which helps them stay strong against tooth sensitivity.

Be careful about what types of beverages that you drink too since they can cause tooth sensitivity as well. Try to stick with water, milk, or tea when you are experiencing tooth sensitivity.

3. Use a Straw

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, try to drink your beverages with a straw instead of taking sips directly from the cup. This will help keep your teeth safe since it keeps them away from hot or cold drinks!

Additionally, by using a straw you can decrease staining to your teeth caused by dark beverages like coffee or tea.

4. Use Mouthwash

Using mouthwash can help combat tooth sensitivity by removing plaque and debris from your teeth. It will also leave the tooth with a fresh, clean feeling which is awesome! Make sure that you are using mouthwash twice daily to get the best results for tooth brushing.

5. Rinse with Salt Water

You can rinse your toothbrush with saltwater before brushing to help combat tooth sensitivity. The high concentration of salt will act as an antiseptic that kills the bacteria that may be causing tooth sensitivity! Make sure to spit out this mixture after rinsing and don’t swallow it since you do not want too much salt in your body.

You can also rinse with a mixture that has warm water and baking soda, but make sure to brush after since toothpaste needs toothbrush bristles to get the best results!

6. Consult a Dental Expert

One of the best ways to combat tooth sensitivity is to consult a dental expert. In some cases, tooth sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay or tooth damage which a dental expert can help fix! Make sure to visit your dentist once every six months for checkups and cleanings.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, make sure to combat it with the tips mentioned above so that your teeth don’t get in the way of eating all types of food again! If tooth sensitivity persists, you should also make an appointment to see one of our dental experts to figure out the root cause of tooth sensitivity.

Dental Plaque: What Is It & How to Avoid It!

Family Dentist in Alabama

It’s important to know what causes dental plaque so you can avoid it! In this blog post, we will talk about what causes dental plaque, how to prevent it from building up on your teeth, and the importance of brushing twice per day. We’ll also discuss why flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health.

What is Dental Plaque?

Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on teeth and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other dental issues. Plaque forms when you don’t brush your teeth regularly or fail to implement good oral hygiene habits.

When not removed by brushing properly, plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar is a form of dental calculus or mineral deposit that can’t be removed by brushing alone.

What Causes Dental Plaque?

There are three main causes of dental plaque:

 

  • A buildup of the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease on your teeth is caused by poor oral hygiene habits.

 

  • Not brushing your teeth regularly – twice a day for two minutes each time!

 

  • Indulging in sugary foods and drinks leads to increased acid in the mouth. Too much sugar will cause bacteria to produce more plaque on your teeth.

 

How to Avoid Dental Plaque

So, how can you avoid dental plaque? While the only way to completely remove plaque from your teeth is a professional dental cleaning, there are several ways to prevent dental plaque between appointments.

The best way to prevent dental plaque is by consistently brushing your teeth twice a day. Be sure to practice proper brushing techniques, brushing the surface of each tooth.

Flossing also plays a crucial role in helping you avoid dental problems caused by plaque. Flossing removes food particles, debris, and bacteria from between your teeth. If left untouched, this may lead to plaque buildup in the future.

Another way to prevent dental plaque is to eat more fruits and vegetables! Not only do many fruits and vegetables help scrub the plaque off your teeth, but they also satisfy cravings, allowing you to eat less sugar. The acidity of sweet treats will accelerate the growth of dental plaque.

When you do indulge in a sweet treat, be sure to rinse well after you are finished as anything high in sugars can cause the buildup of bacteria on teeth (hello cavities!).

The Role of Dental Cleanings in Eliminating Plaque

Although it is important to practice good oral hygiene to reduce plaque on the surface of your teeth, professional dental cleanings are the only way to fully eliminate plaque.

Because of this, it’s important to make bi-annual dental exams and cleanings a priority. Not only does your dentist remove hardened tartar before it turns into cavities but they also look for signs of decay, disease, or other health concerns.

By taking the time to establish great oral hygiene habits, you can reduce the possibility of cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease – something that will continue to benefit your health for years to come.

5 Reasons Everyone Should Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Family Dentist in Alabama

Everyone knows that a good oral hygiene routine provides them with a bright, healthy smile. But did you know that the impacts of your oral hygiene – whether positive or negative – extend far beyond the appearance of your smile? There are numerous reasons that you should adopt a healthy oral hygiene routine. Keep reading to learn just a few of the most compelling reasons to prioritize your oral health! 

1. Poor Oral Hygiene Affects Your Overall Health

Did you know that a poor oral hygiene routine could lead to serious health complications later in life? Researchers and medical experts have spent countless years researching the correlations between poor oral health and heart disease, diabetes, sepsis, bacterial infections, pregnancy complications, and a variety of other issues. 

Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of inflammation in your mouth that can then impact other areas of your body, weakening your defense against serious health conditions. By developing a proper oral hygiene routine, you can improve both your oral health and your overall well-being!

2. A Healthy Smile Improves Confidence

What is the first thing you notice when meeting something new? For 40% of Americans, that feature is the smile! Poor oral hygiene can lead to staining, tooth loss, or gum disease – conditions that can decrease your confidence and even cause feelings of embarrassment. 

By prioritizing your oral health, you can improve your confidence with a smile that is both bright and healthy! 

3. Proper Oral Hygiene Minimizes Disease & Decay

We would be remiss to not mention the impact of proper oral hygiene on your oral health. When you fail to practice proper oral hygiene, your chances of developing gum disease or tooth decay skyrocket. While they may not seem like serious conditions, both gum disease and tooth decay can rapidly progress – requiring extensive dental work to remedy the ailment. 

Developing and maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine is the best way to combat oral disease, tooth decay, and a variety of other preventable ailments.

4. Decreases Costs Associated With Dental Care

Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene often leads to expensive dental procedures. By practicing good oral hygiene, you can decrease the cost of your dental care by eliminating pricey procedures! 

Additionally, regular dental cleanings and exams are typically included in your dental insurance plan. By failing to prioritize oral hygiene by scheduling these appointments, you are wasting money! Protect both your smile and your bank account by making oral hygiene a priority.

5. Your Friends Will Thank You

What is worse than spending time with someone who constantly has bad breath? Being that person in your friend group! No one wants to be known for their bad breath or toothy smile. Trust us – your friends will thank you for practicing and prioritizing your oral health and hygiene! 

So, how do you practice good oral hygiene? The answer is simple! Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once daily, and visit your dentist on a bi-annual basis for a thorough cleaning and exam. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Tooth Cavities: Separating Fact From Fiction

Family Dentist in Alabama

As one of the most common oral health concerns, there is great confusion surrounding the topic of tooth cavities. What causes cavities? Are some people just more prone to this problem than others? The answers to these questions may surprise you! 

So, what is a cavity? A cavity is a form of tooth decay. The bacteria that is found in the mouth is highly acidic and interacts with plaque to eat away at your tooth’s enamel. Over time, this results in a hole in your tooth that will continue to grow deeper if you don’t receive professional care.

While cavities in their early stages are invisible to the untrained eye, they will begin to cause a toothache or pain once reaching the inside of the tooth. Fortunately, cavities are easily treatable through a process called a dental filling. Now that we know more about what a cavity really is, let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about tooth cavities.

Myth: Only Kids Get Cavities

A cavity is often the first type of oral health problem a child experiences. Because of this, many people are under the impression that only kids get cavities. However, this is simply a myth!

Patients of every age are susceptible to tooth cavities. In fact, due to advancements in dentistry over the past 20 years, children are now at a lower risk for developing cavities than their older family members. 

Myth: Sugar is The Only Thing That Causes Cavities

This is where things get tricky. While this is mostly a myth, there is some truth behind it! The primary culprit in causing cavities is bacteria in the mouth. This bacteria is responsible for the production of the destructive acid that begins to eat through the enamel of your teeth. 

Where does this bacteria come from? The primary food groups that cause cavities are carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are naturally occurring sugars and are exist in a variety of foods including bread, rice, potatoes, and more.

So while that sugary treat certainly doesn’t do your teeth any favors, it is not the only thing that increases your chances of developing a cavity.

Myth: There is No True Way to Prevent Cavities

Unfortunately, some people are more prone to cavities than others. Some individuals are more prone to developing cavity-causing bacteria than others. Others simply have gaps in their smiles that provide more opportunities for decay. However, even for individuals with these pre-existing conditions, there are always ways to prevent cavities! 

Patients of every age can take steps towards preventing cavities by brushing their teeth thoroughly twice each day and flossing daily. However, the most effective way to prevent cavities is to visit your dentist for bi-annual dental cleanings and exams.

As we discussed previously, cavities are caused when the bacteria interacts with the plaque that accumulates on the surface of your teeth. While daily oral hygiene tasks keep this plaque at bay, the only true way to achieve a clean smile is through a professional dental cleaning!

Eat Right, Smile Bright! 8 Foods That Are Great For Your Teeth

Family Dentist in Alabama

We often discuss the foods that are not good for our teeth. But did you know that certain foods can benefit the health of both your teeth and your gums? By adding these foods into your diet, you can brighten your smile, strengthen your teeth, and work towards a healthier, happier smile. 

Here are 8 of the best foods to eat for your oral health:

1. Apples

Apples serve many purposes. While it is wise to minimize your intake of sweets, an apple can curb your sweet tooth while also contributing to your oral health! Eating an apple encourages increased saliva production, something that helps to rinse away bacteria and food particles sticking around after your meal. The texture of the apple also helps to stimulate your gums and leaves your teeth feeling fresh! 

2. Yogurt

Yogurt is likely not the first thing that comes to mind as you consider oral health. However, there are many ways that this tasty treat is beneficial to your smile! Yogurt is high in both protein and calcium, two things that help to strengthen your teeth. Additionally, the probiotics found in yogurt help to counteract the bad bacteria that is responsible for forming cavities. 

Not all yogurt is created equal. It is important to look for yogurt with minimal sugars or opt for plain yogurt and add fruit for a bit of sweetness.

3. Cheese

Cheese, like yogurt and other dairy products, is high in calcium and protein. Additionally, studies have suggested that cheese raises the pH of the mouth, lowering the risk of tooth decay! 

4. Leafy Greens

You are likely not surprised that leafy greens found a spot on this list. Greens such as spinach and kale contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that promote optimal health. While greens may not be your snack of choice, they make a perfect addition to a salad, smoothie, or even pizza.

5. Carrots

Carrots are quite similar to apples, encouraging the production of saliva that fends of cavities. This tasty treat also contains high amounts of fiber and vitamin A, both of which benefit your smile!

6. Celery

Celery is by far one of the least popular vegetables. However, it contains antioxidants such as vitamins A and C that benefit your gum health. Additionally, celery gently cleans bacteria and food particles from the surface of your teeth. Not a fan of the taste? Add a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter for a tasty treat!

7. Raisins

Perhaps one of the most surprising foods on this list is raisins! Raisins contain phytochemicals that could help fight cavity-causing bacteria and minimize the risk of gum disease. 

8. Strawberries

As if we needed another reason to love this sweet treat, strawberries contain a variety of nutrients including fiber, folate, manganese, and vitamin C. The malic acid found in many fruits, including strawberries, has even been said to naturally whiten your teeth. We consider that a win! 

Next time you head to the kitchen for a snack, consider one of these healthy (yet delicious) options. By eating right, you can achieve a smile that is both healthy and bright!

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Hampton Cove Family Dentist

Hampton Cove Dentist

Hampton Cove Location

6838 US Highway 431 South Unit B
Owens Cross Roads, AL

(256) 536-8120

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