The food you eat definitely impacts your overall health, but did you know it can also impact the health of your teeth? March is National Nutrition Month and your Columbia, SC dental team is here to share the foods that could help you ace your next dental check-up! This way you won't need as much Columbia SC dental work. The Best Foods For Your Teeth Spinach and Leafy Greens It’s probably not a surprise that leafy green veggies are good for you! These power-packed ingredients are beneficial for your whole body, including your mouth. In addition to being high in vitamins and minerals, fibrous leafy greens essentially “scrub” your teeth as you chew them! Strawberries Snacking on strawberries could not only keep your smile healthy, but possibly even whiter and brighter! These delicious summer berries contain malic acid, which is a natural enamel whitener. Try them in a summer salad or a morning smoothie. Cheese Foods rich in calcium, like cheese, milk, and yogurt, can help strengthen and protect your teeth and can even help replace minerals if acids wear down your enamel. Cheese is particularly beneficial, containing casein, an enamel-strengthening protein. Apples and Pears Crunchy fruits that contain plenty of water are great for your teeth since they stimulate the production of saliva, which helps wash away excess bacteria. Two great choices are apples and pears. Chewing crunchy apple slices scrubs away plaque and can freshen breath. Raw pears can neutralize acids. Celery Loaded with fibrous strands, celery could be called “nature’s floss,” stimulating saliva production and dislodging food particles from between your teeth. Water It might seems obvious, but drinking plenty of water helps flush sugar and acid off of your teeth. It also contains fluoride, which protects against erosion. Foods to Avoid This post wouldn’t be complete without a list of foods to avoid for the health of your mouth. Exercise caution and moderation, and always rinse your mouth with plenty of water after consuming them:

• Coffee
• Wine (red AND white)
• Soda (diet AND regular)
• Hard and chewy candies
• Citrus fruits and juices

Remember, enjoying fresh and nutritious food is beneficial for your overall health, including the health of your teeth and gums! A balanced diet containing these foods can help keep bacteria at bay, reducing cavities, bad breath, and potentially harmful dental conditions. Ensure your next appointment with Dr. Griffin is successful by enjoying a balanced, healthy diet containing plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water. Book your appointment today at (803) 788-0099. We look forward to seeing you soon!