Sometimes, you just can’t have it all. You might have a favorite healthy snack that seems good for your overall health, and then you find out it isn’t the best for your teeth. It’s never too late to change your snack habits. After all, you should be looking out for that gorgeous smile of yours.
Here are some things that dentists and dental practices like Willow Creek Dental want you to know about certain healthy snacks.
Almonds can fracture your teeth.
Almonds are a source of vitamin E, magnesium, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. But while the healthy nut reduces the risk of heart attack and lowers bad cholesterol, it takes a toll on your teeth.
When you heartily chomp on those whole almonds often enough, your teeth may crack or fracture. The nut is hard, after all. If you just can’t resist almonds, maybe go for the thinly sliced ones.
Citrus fruits may cause your teeth to erode.
Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C. They help improve the immune system, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and even prevent skin wrinkling. But because they are quite acidic, citrus fruits aren’t exactly best friends with teeth.
The acids found in citrus fruits tend to soften tooth enamel and make way for erosion, so limit citrus intake and follow it up with water and cheese.
Dried fruits have all the sugar and none of the water.
It doesn’t matter if that snack you’ve been munching on is made of bananas, kiwis, or cherries. Dried fruit has no water content, and this amplifies the effects of the remaining sugar in the fruit. Sugar triggers plaque and, when not treated, tooth decay.
This all boils down to one thing: health is not a zero-sum game. What’s good for your body isn’t always right for your teeth.
