Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too!
That's not to say you have to cut back on the foods that are good for you. We have some tips on how you can protect your teeth and maximize the benefits of eating this delicious fruit:
1. Eat smart. Pair your strawberries with foods that have low acid and sugar content. Nuts, spinach, bananas, apples and many dairy products are excellent options. And watch what beverages you're pairing your strawberries with -- soft drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks and wine are all highly acidic.
2. Don't eat constantly throughout the day. Waiting a couple of hours between eating allows saliva to neutralize acid and repair tooth enamel.
3. Rinse after eating. Rinsing your mouth out with water also neutralizes acid -- and drinking water will help keep you hydrated if you spend a lot of time outdoors this summer!
4. Chew gum. Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes following a meal can activate saliva and help wash away debris.
5. Hold off on brushing your teeth. Yes, you read that right! The abrasives in toothpaste can further damage enamel that's weakened by acid. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating or drinking something acidic.
6. Floss. Strawberries contain an average of 200 seeds, which can get stuck in your teeth. Flossing at least once a day will help you prevent cavities from developing between teeth.
When it comes to the many health benefits of strawberries, your teeth are probably the last thing on your mind. But with a little preparation, you can fully enjoy your favorite fruit without worrying about your dental health. Maintaining a healthy diet along with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits could increase the life of your tooth enamel.
