As our lives today get busier, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most: quality, face-to-face time with our family.
That’s what “Eat Better, Eat Together Month” hopes to address, urging all of us to get back to basics when it comes to our families and meal time, and to be conscious of the foods we put on the table. Not only is eating together at the dinner table important for building relationships with our family members, but being mindful at planning dinner can have a positive effect on our mental and biological health, too.
When cooking for the family, it can force us to think twice about what we put on our plates. We want to provide the best for our children, so that means shopping for the best quality ingredients and preparing our meals mindfully.
With better food selection, comes better health. It’s no secret that picking wholesome, quality foods can enhance our health, including weight loss, cardiovascular health, and more. But did you know that good foods can also improve your oral health?
Here are some of our smile-friendly food recommendations to consider when preparing your meals:
- Fibrous fruits and vegetables: There’s a reason why fruits and veggies appear on many lists for improving your health. But what does it mean when it comes to your teeth? Foods with lots of fiber promote saliva production, which is the body’s best defense to periodontal diseases. Saliva helps to clean your mouth and provide the necessary acids and minerals to naturally clean your mouth.
- Calcium-rich foods, like dairy: Calcium is an important mineral that plays a big role in improving bone and teeth health in our bodies. If you love cheese, then getting more calcium may not be too much of an issue, but if you’re looking for an alternative for lactose-intolerant or vegan loved ones, there are still many options. Try seeds (like sesame and chia), beans and lentils, almonds, and tofu.
- Water: Yep, you read it right… Water! Not only is this nourishing and necessary for general health and wellness, but water also helps to clear debris from your teeth, and produce more saliva.
In short, simply eating healthier can help improve the health of your teeth and gums. If you’re looking for more food tips and how your diet can help your family’s oral health, consult with your dentist at your next appointment.
Our Long Beach dental team has helped thousands of families in the area achieve beautiful smiles through dental care and guidance. Book your next appointment with Dr. Stephen Coates and his friendly and experienced dental team today.
Request your appointment online, or call us at 562-434-6414.
