With fall just around the corner, many of us are looking forward to enjoying the cooler weather, the colorful leaves, and sending the kids back to school—whether remotely or on the bus. This time of year is also brimming with delicious foods and flavors to enjoy during holidays and festivals! While there are plenty of seasonal snacks that do not benefit your oral health, there are several healthy options that are great for your smile! Read on as your Braintree dentist shares five fall foods that will help keep your teeth and gums healthy as you enjoy autumn.
1.) Apples
Apples are a sweet, delicious treat that boasts a variety of health benefits. However, did you know that eating apples can help lower your risk of tooth decay? While they do contain a high amount of natural sugars, they’re also brimming with water and fiber. When you chew an apple, it gently scrubs the surfaces of your teeth, which removes plaque. It also encourages saliva production, which helps your body naturally fight off cavities with bacteria-neutralizing agents.
2.) Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a classic fall flavor, but did you know that this vegetable is a superfood when it comes to your smile? Pumpkin contains a garden variety of important nutrients and vitamins, including zinc, magnesium, beta-carotene and vitamins A and C. These help with strengthening enamel, healing gum tissue, combating infections and fighting off several types of cancers.
3.) Pumpkin Seeds
Another excellent choice for your oral health is pumpkin seeds. Along with their delicious flavor, these seeds are rich with fiber, phosphorus, protein, calcium, and iron. Many of these nutrients play a key role in rebuilding weakened enamel, and some encourage a healthier tongue.
4.) Nuts
Nuts like almonds, cashews and Brazil nuts are a common snacking choice this time of year. These all contain important nutrients to strengthen teeth and have been shown to help fight cavity-causing tooth decay. However, it’s important to avoid snacking on nuts all the time. They’re hard enough to wear down your enamel if chewed on too frequently, which can lead to chipped or cracked teeth! Try enjoying these fall snacks a little bit at a time.
5.) Cranberries
Cranberries are also a popular food during the fall season. These tart berries contain polyphenols that act as a natural bacteria repellant by preventing the formation of decay-causing particles. Just be sure not to eat cranberry products that are loaded with sugar—instead, try enjoying a hot mug of cranberry juice with cinnamon, orange zest, and cloves for a truly healthy taste of autumn!
It’s all too easy to let your oral health accidentally fall by the wayside this time of year. Keep these smile friendly fall foods in mind to help maintain healthy teeth and gums!
About the Practice
Pinnacle Dental has been serving the smiles of Braintree and the surrounding communities since 1988. Our talented team of dental professionals aims to provide highly personalized, quality dental care for each patient. We utilize the newest dental techniques and state-of-the-art dental technology to ensure that every treatment is as effective and comfortable as possible. For more ways to keep your smile healthy this fall, feel free to contact us online or at (781) 843-7905.