With the holidays approaching, you are sure to receive some gifts of candy. While it is fine to enjoy candy occasionally, it is better to enjoy healthy sweet treats that are good for your teeth. If you must partake of sweets during the holidays, here are some healthy possibilities for you to consider.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is an excellent treat that is helpful for the health of your teeth. Ingredients in dark chocolate fight plaque buildup on your teeth. Dark chocolate also fights bacteria that can cause bad breath and gum disease. Cocoa extract has even been found to be more effective than fluoride in preventing cavities. So go ahead and indulge in this sweet treat.
Sugar-Free Chewing Gum
Sugar-free gum will not hurt your teeth. It keeps the mouth moist, diluting sugars and acids that can cause cavities. If you choose a chewing gum that contains xylitol, the results are even better. Xylitol gum was found to prevent tooth decay even better than gum without xylitol. As long as you are not wearing braces and not having jaw pain, sugar-free gum with xylitol is an excellent choice to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Candy Containing Nuts
If you must eat candy, choose a candy that contains nuts. The nuts will help to keep the candy from sticking to your teeth. Also, some nuts contain vitamins and minerals that are good for your teeth. For example, peanuts contain vitamin D and calcium, and walnuts contain magnesium, folic acid, and iron.
High Fiber Fruit
Fruit that is high in fiber, such as apples, is good for your teeth. The high water content of the fruit helps produce saliva, which washes the sugar from your teeth. The fiber helps the fruit to scrape your teeth as you eat it, acting as a sort of natural toothbrush. The fiber also helps to stimulate your gums, keeping them healthy.
What to Do After Eating Sweet Treats
For best dental health, you should always swish some water around your mouth after eating these healthy sweet treats to remove them from your teeth. If you are at home or have access to a toothbrush, it is a good idea to brush and floss your teeth afterward too.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact North View Dental at 801-782-6681. We can answer your questions or schedule you for an appointment in our comfortable and professional dental office. We look forward to seeing you.
