Is it possible to do an indulgent Easter whilst being friendly to your teeth? The answer is…yes! We’ve found some of the most tooth-friendly foods that you can enjoy over the Easter bank holiday weekend, without having to feel guilty….
Cheese
Amazingly, cheese can actually prevent cavities, increasing the ph level in your mouth and thus stimulating the production of saliva that helps wash away lingering food particles. Dairy products are generally good for your teeth, for example, yoghurt contains probiotics which strengthen your gums. Why not swap your ice-cream dessert for a helping of Greek yoghurt and honey? Low in sugar, fat and good for your teeth and gums. Add almonds, containing calcium and protein, to compliment the flavour.
Foods rich in vitamin C
Vitamin C has the power to strengthen blood vessels and reduce inflammation which can help sustain the health of your gums. Vitamin C is also needed for the production of collagen, a significant protein that helps you fight periodontal disease (gum disease). Diets lacking in Vitamin C make individuals more susceptible to the types of bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
Hot cross buns
Although the sugar content may be high, hot cross buns are less sugary than other types of Easter foods – the lesser of a few evils so to speak! They contain dried fruit, a great alternative to the sugar found in chocolate and they’re easy to break down if you have sensitive teeth, whilst biting into solid chocolate Easter eggs can pose a challenge!
Regular dental hygiene appointments to keep on top of things
Many people neglect to attend hygienist appointments, often substituting them for dentist appointments, when in fact they have different roles. One principal difference between them is that a dental hygienist can carry out what is known as a ‘scale and polish’: a deep clean of your teeth to remove bacteria that cannot be removed through brushing alone. This type of bacteria is tartar and plaque that manifests as a black tarry-looking coating and should removed ASAP in order to avoid the onset of gum disease.
You can read more about the importance of dental and oral hygiene on our website by clicking here.
If you would like more information about oral hygiene treatment with us here in Northampton, please do not hesitate to contact us.