Have you entered into the spirit of Christmas yet? When we’re in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping we can sometimes lose track of the best things about the holidays. Such as the quality time you can spend with family and friends. It’s also a time to share and enjoy festive foods and drinks. With that in mind, we would like to share some tips with you on how to enjoy Christmas parties and dinners while keeping your smile bright. For instance, there are some foods more than others that can stain your teeth. These foods you’ll want to avoid or keep in moderation. The good news is that there are lots of foods that are not only yummy but that will help promote the health of your teeth.
Foods to Keep in Moderation
Sugar
As is commonly known, sugar fuels bacterial growth. But to not spoil the fun, consider replacing sugar with substitutes such as xylitol, erythritol or stevia. (Just make sure to keep treats with xylitol or erythritol away from pets as they are very toxic for pets). Avoid candies that stick to your teeth. And a good substitute for soda drinks loaded with sugar are sparkling flavored waters.
Coffee and Tea
Both coffee and tea contain tannins which will stain teeth. However, teas such as green tea have antioxidants that are good for you. Therefore, to prevent staining, keep them in moderation to protect your teeth from staining. A tea you can drink as an alternative is Rooibos. This tea originated in South Africa but is becoming more popular in other parts of the world. And it doesn't contain tannins that can stain your teeth.
Fruits (that stain teeth)
Blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, and pomegranates can heavily stain your teeth. On the other hand, they also have healthy qualities such as antioxidants and vitamin C. So I won’t say avoid them but eat them in moderation.
Wine
Like tea, wine also contains tannins which can stain your teeth.
Foods that Promote Your Dental Health
Calcium and Phosphorus rich foods
Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and contains the highest percentage of minerals. It is made up mostly of minerals, primarily hydroxyapatite, which is a crystalline calcium phosphate. Calcium helps teeth by strengthening tooth enamel. Calcium needs phosphorus to maximize bone strengthening. Here are some suggestions for calcium and phosphorous rich foods:
Calcium: Green leafy vegetables, yogurt, cheese (hard, aged), seafood, milk (low-fat), tofu, almonds.
Phosphorus: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, brazil nuts, fish, red meat, eggs, tofu
Foods rich in Vitamin D: Vitamin D is vital for your overall health. It helps your body absorb calcium which is vital for strong teeth. Foods high in Vitamin D: fish, egg yolks, cod liver oil, spinach, kale, okra, collards, soybeans and white beans.
Fibrous fruits and vegetables: Foods with fiber stimulate saliva flow, which is a natural defense against cavities. Saliva helps wash away food particles. Also about 20 minutes after you eat something, saliva begins to neutralize the acids attacking your teeth. Here are some examples of high fiber fruits and vegetables:
Fruits: Apples, bananas, oranges, raspberries, strawberries, mangos, persimmons.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, broccoli, collard greens and Swiss chard
To sum it up, there are lots of great foods you can have during the holidays. Go ahead and reach for the cheese, nut and fruit platters. Eat in moderation the foods that can stain your teeth. And rinse with clear water after eating or drinking any highly staining food.
The best of holidays to you from all of us at Carothers’ Family Dentistry!
Dr. Dave N. Carothers, DDS