Fall is here and that means plenty of fun outdoor activities, traditions, and sweet treats! But keep your oral health in mind this fall when you reach for all that candy! But fall is the time of harvest, meaning there are plenty of natural healthy foods that are great for your teeth that are at their freshest this time of year! Consider replacing that candy habit with healthier options. Below are our recommendations for the healthiest foods of fall!
Apples
Nothing says fall like going to the apple orchard and picking fresh apples from the trees. Good news for your teeth, apples are one of the best foods for oral health. Apples have tons of fiber and water, and make your mouth produce plenty of saliva, which helps wash away food and bacteria from your mouth. The texture of apples also helps scrub your teeth free of plaque. Do your mouth a favor, and go apple picking this fall before it’s too late!
Celery
Celery, like apples, has plenty of water and fiber great for scrubbing and washing away food particles and bacteria from your teeth. Eating celery involves a lot of chewing, which helps it reach all different parts of your mouth and scrub all your teeth clean. It’s also chockfull of antioxidants to help the health of your gums.
Dark Leafy Greens
There are plenty of ways to integrate leafy greens into your diet. From fall salads to sandwiches or even a smoothie, there’s always room for these nutrient-rich foods. Dark, leafy greens are great for your teeth because they provide your tooth enamel with plenty of calcium. They also have folic acid which promotes gum health. Introduce more of these into your diet for a beautiful, healthy smile!
Yogurt
Like most dairy products, yogurt contains plenty of calcium which helps build tooth enamel. Yogurt also has probiotics to support gum health. Be careful when choosing yogurt, however. Some flavored brands may contain sugar, which is counterproductive for your teeth. Choose a yogurt without added sugar.
Butternut Squash
Great for any fall recipe, butternut squash is not only delicious—it’s great for your oral health. Butternut squash has potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. Potassium is great for bone health and help your teeth stay strong. Just make sure to resist the urge to add too much sugar or butter to your butternut squash. Try instead adding some cinnamon for a delicious fall flavor!
