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Sugar is a sworn enemy of healthy teeth. Any food that contains large amounts of sugar will increase the production of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film that adheres to your teeth, and can turn into tartar if left to harden. The presence of plaque and tartar on your teeth will result in tooth decay, over time. You know what foods to stay away from in order to avoid cavities. Are there foods that are actually good for your teeth? Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, would like to inform you of a few culinary options that actually reduce plaque.

Raw Vegetables to Eliminate Excess Food Particles

Plaque is a mixture of food particles and bacteria. Munching on raw vegetables like carrots, celery, cauliflower, and broccoli, can actually remove food particles while you eat. These nutritional dynamos also take extra effort to chew. Chewing increases saliva production. Ample saliva adds to the elimination of food particles in the mouth, and also helps to neutralize acids.

Olive Oil to Fight Bacteria

Consider dipping those raw veggies in olive oil. Researchers at the University of Madrid discovered anti-cavity properties in olive oil by connecting low tooth decay and gum disease rates in the people that lived in towns that manufactured the oil derived from olives. Oleuropein is the name of the anti-bacterial compound in olive oil that not only has the ability to stop the bacteria that cause gum disease, but also bone loss. Additionally, the fat molecules in all oils help neutralize acids and prevent plaque from forming.

Strengthen Teeth with Cheese

Eating just a small amount of cheese – less than an ounce – can help harden teeth. Intact enamel is ideal for keeping tooth decay at bay. Cheese has also been found to reduce acid by maintaining a pH level in the mouth that is conducive to healthy teeth. Various types of cheese have been shown to reduce plaque, including: cheddar, Swiss, brie, Gouda, and even processed American cheese.

Eating healthy and keeping up with  good oral hygiene practices will ensure that your next checkup is a snap. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris, call our Mansfield dentist office at (817) 259-1357. We offer comprehensive dentistry to patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and the 76063 zip code.