Friendly foods
Cheese
As we mentioned in our previous post, Christmas isn’t complete without a decent cheeseboard. When you’re chomping down on a chunk of Port Salou, you’ll be happy to know that not only is it rich in calcium, which promotes healthy teeth, but, it also balances out the PH in your mouth. This will lessen the damaging effects of acid from a festive glass of wine
Nuts
Peanuts (unsalted if possible) contain calcium and vitamin D, both vital for oral health as well as your general health. Walnuts (often used in puddings and cakes), also contain zinc fibre, folic acid, iron, thiamine, magnesium, vitamin E & B6, potassium and zinc – all of which play an important role in keeping our teeth and gums healthy. Forget about that packet of crisps and opt for a bowl of nuts instead!
Vegetables
Christmas lunch wouldn’t be Christmas lunch without an abundance of yummy vegetables. Broccoli and carrots in particular are great for your oral health. They contain vitamin A which help strengthen your tooth enamel
Turkey
Christmas dinner definitely wouldn’t be Christmas dinner without the traditional turkey. This festive favourite provides us with a great source of protein and is rich in phosphorus. These combine with calcium and vitamin D to make our teeth (and bones). By eating plenty of protein you will help reduce tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Teeth Rotters
Chocolates, Sweets, biscuits, puddings and pies
We know it’s difficult to resist the allure of the endless supply of chocolate, sweets, biscuits, puddings and pies but, do yourself a favour and try to keep them to a minimum as sugars are a prime cause of the acidic biofilm which causes dental decay.
The acid that comes from frequent refined sugar consumption can dissolve the minerals that are essential for healthy teeth. When you do indulge, do so in one go after your meal, instead of grazing throughout the day
Fizzy drinks
If you fancy bit of fizz in your soft drinks or mixers opt for soda water. Fizzy drinks are packed with sugar (even sugar-free or diet drinks are still acidic). An excessive amount of these can cause tooth enamel to erode. But, if you can’t resist the fizz, use a straw. This will lessen direct contact with your teeth.
Crisps
Cooked starch breaks down into its component sugars – the main enemy for teeth. Instead, opt for carbs low on the glycaemic index such as vegetable crisps! Try baking some kale with your favourite seasonings and some olive oil to hit that crunchy craving.
Wine
It’s true we all love a glass of wine or two at Christmas. However, you should remember white wine can be very acidic and can contribute to enamel erosion. When you simply must indulge, just make sure that you have it as an accompaniment to your main meal, as drinking little and often is far worse than drinking once a day.
Red wine as you may already know, can also increase the risk of staining, especially if you forget to brush your teeth as often as you should with all the distractions of the festive season!
Remember, brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums!
For more information on oral health and how you can maintain yours this festive season, visit us at Dental house
Or call us on
Phone: 01-5378045
Lo-Call: 1890223344
Opening April 2016- Aungier Street
Opening Summer 2016- Smithfield Plaza
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