In maintaining healthy teeth and gums, a healthy diet plays a major role. Knowing which snacks are good for their kids, those that can still fill the bellies without destroying the enamel or promoting cavities is something every parent should know. The top food that most children find appealing that help keep cavities at bay, are apples, though there is actually quite an extensive list. To help your kids maintain oral hygiene, we at Smile Reef would like to elaborate on the benefits of apples today.
Apples are High in Fiber
Apples are packed with fiber, which is highly beneficial for teeth. Fiber is an excellent nutrient for mouth-health to support a healthy digestive system. Fibrous fruits and vegetables actually scrub teeth as they are being consumed as it aids to remove the bad mouth bacteria that lead to cavities and tooth decay. Depending on size, apples have approximately 4 grams of fiber, depending upon age of your child, they offer about 15% of the daily-recommended amount. Make certain to thoroughly rinse the apples before eating them and leave the skin on the apple since it is the perfect scrubbing texture for removing the layer of plaque.
How Much Water is in an Apple
Being nearly 86% water, and water is an important element for a healthy mouth, you get ample amounts of water to stimulate the saliva production. Since saliva naturally clears the contaminates off the surface of teeth, food debris and damaging acids that attack enamel and cause cavities, are all rinsed away. Also, saliva is a major contributor of maintaining the mouth’s pH level balanced and healthy.
Vitamin C Rich Fruits
Apples are an excellent source for Vitamin C and Vitamin C contributes to maintaining healthy gums. Since Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant, it can help heal gums, and fight gum inflammation. The acceleration of the healing process is because the body produces more collagen with the help of Vitamin C, which helps in cell repair. Though apples a better option for healthier teeth and a favorite amongst kids, other vegetables that contain vitamin C like oranges, grapefruits and kiwi, but are more acidic.
Vitamin A in Apples
Another vitamin apple is a great source of, is Vitamin A, which is one of the absolute best vitamins for overall oral health. Vitamin A also helps keep the saliva flowing to naturally clean the teeth of damaging acids and prevent dry mouth. Because the Vitamin A promotes the healthy mucous in the mouth that coats the surfaces inside, ensuring proper amounts Vitamin A keeps the gums and cheeks less susceptible to infection and disease.
Pediatric Dentistry
While contributing to a healthy mouth with the benefits of vitamins, low acid composition and high fiber content that helps scrub the teeth with every bite, apples are one of many options that offers a lot of flavor for your kids overall. Apples help keep the body healthy and nourished in addition to aiding with oral health. Along with routine dental visits and a healthy diet, brushing and flossing twice a day will all help keep your teeth and gums healthy. To schedule your child’s next appointment, contact Smile Reef today.
