If you are a frequent snacker, this might be having an impact on your waistline. But did you know that what, when, and how often you eat snacks can also impact your oral health? Even if you visit your Green Bay family dentist on a regular basis, your frequent snacking might be putting your oral health at risk.
What to Consider about Snacking
- How often are you eating sugary snacks each day?
- How long do the sugary foods stay inside your mouth?
- What is the texture of the food you are snacking on? Is it chewy or sticky?
- Is your snack a healthy one?
When you do snack, it’s best to skip those that have a lot of sugar and fat. There are plenty of delicious snacks that are healthy for your teeth as well as your body.
Picking Snacks That Are Healthy
Good choices for snacks include foods such as raw vegetables, fresh fruits, low-fat dairy, and whole grain foods. Because most people don’t brush their teeth after snacking, choosing those that will have the least impact on your teeth is best. Sugary snacks feed the bacteria that already exists in your mouth, which contributes to tooth decay.
Here are some ideas:
- Fresh fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, melons, pineapples, apples, and pears
- Raw vegetables, such as carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, and cauliflower
- Dairy products, such as plain yogurt, low-fat cheese, and milk
- Lean meats, such as chicken or turkey slices
- Whole grains, such as popcorn, tortilla chips, bagels, and bread
Visit Your De Pere Dentist Regularly
In addition to eating a healthy diet, it’s crucial to visit the dentist regularly. Green Bay family dentist Dr. Chad Yenchensky recommends visiting twice each year for routine examinations and teeth cleaning. Give FoxView Dental a call today to make an appointment.
We look forward to seeing you!