It has long been known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is important for developing and maintaining strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy works in the same ways. Did you know that a recent study has found that cheese can actually help protect teeth against cavities?
How does cheese prevent cavities?
Eating cheese helps stimulate the production of saliva in your mouth, which washes away sugars, acids, and bacteria on your teeth. Additionally, cheese is a great source of both calcium and phosphorous, which can help strengthen tooth enamel. What’s more, the scientists who performed the study found that some of the other compounds found in cheese seem to adhere to tooth enamel, further protecting the teeth from acids in the mouth.
Are all cheeses the same?
No, some cheeses are healthier for your family than others. To get the greatest benefit from your cheese intake, stick with real cheese varieties, rather than processed cheeses. American cheese, cheese dips, and pre-packaged cheese products, such as those found in jars or spray cans, have added sugars to enhance their flavor. These sugars can be harmful to teeth, rather than protecting them. In addition, these types of cheese products contain a significantly reduced amount of actual cheese content. These processed cheeses can even wear down tooth enamel, increasing risk of decay.
What kinds of cheese should I eat?
There are hundreds of types of real cheese available, which are packed with calcium and great for tooth protection. If you enjoy aged cheeses, Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey jack are all tasty options. If you prefer softer cheeses, Mozzarella, Brie, or Camembert may be a great way to enjoy a snack that makes you smile. Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and other similar cheeses have much to offer for those who have a more expansive palate.
What if we’re on a low-fat diet?
Good news! The fat content of your cheese choices do not affect its ability to protect your teeth. The low-fat or non-fat versions of your favorite varieties of cheese contain just as much calcium, phosphorous, and other tooth-protecting compounds as the full-fat varieties.
With so many great options to choose from, consider eating cheese instead of sugary or starchy options for a snack or end of meal treat. Cheese tastes great and is healthy for your teeth. For more ideas for healthy snacking, contact our dental office.
WE ARE OPEN
Dear Thompson Dental Family,
We hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. We have missed seeing everyone at our office! Our community has been through a lot over the last few months and all of us are looking forward to transitioning back to our normal operations.
While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety. Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice, and you may have seen this during your visits to our office. Our infection control processes are made so that when you receive care, it is both safe and comfortable. Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
You may see some changes when it is time for your next appointment. We made these changes to help protect our patients and staff. For example:
We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. To make an appointment, please call our office at 972-346-2992 or visit our contact page.
Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty and look forward to welcoming back our patients, neighbors, and friends.
Please contact our office if you have any concerns.