You may think of fresh, juicy fruits as only a summertime treat, but some fruits are great to enjoy all year long. January 15 is National Strawberry Ice Cream Day, and Dr. Locke encourages you to celebrate the strawberries without the ice cream.
Natural Tooth Whitener
Strawberries contain malic acid, an astringent property that helps remove discoloration on the surface of your tooth. Applying a fresh strawberry and baking soda mixture to your teeth for about five minutes a day can help cleanse your teeth and wipe away stains. Professional cleaning and whitening by Dr. Locke is generally more effective, but eating strawberries at home may help brighten your smile.
Improve Health
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that can keep your body healthy. The fruit is high in vitamin C, potassium, fiber, folic acid, and manganese. The combination of healthy nutrients and antioxidants can help lower your blood pressure, keep your body strong, and improve your heart health.
Be Careful
Although strawberries are a great part of healthy diets, too much may damage your smile. Like most other fruits, strawberries are very acidic. Over time, acidic foods and beverages may begin to dissolve the outer layer of enamel on your teeth, exposing your teeth to greater damage from tooth decay, sensitivity, discoloration, and chips. Strawberries also contain approximately 200 seeds, which can get stuck between your teeth and cause discomfort, pain, and cavities, if not removed.
Sweet Strawberry Treats
Dr. Locke want to warn you about the risk of celebrating Strawberry Ice Cream Day. Ice cream is filled with sugar that can decay your teeth, and the cold temperature may cause sensitivity. Instead, try these other tasty strawberry treats:
- Yogurt: Yogurt has a creamy texture and sweet flavor similar to ice cream, but is also a great source of protein and calcium to help keep your body strong and healthy.
- Smoothies: Blend up a few strawberries and add yogurt or milk to get calcium and the rich strawberry flavor you’re craving, while skipping the sugar.
- Baked Strawberries: Baking your favorite fruit will have the same effect as a warm fruit pie, and is great for the cold weather. You can even top your dessert with a little cinnamon or a dab of whipped cream to help satisfy your sweet tooth.
You can still enjoy your favorite fruits while protecting your smile. Contact Dr. Locke at our dentist office in Waco, Texas, at (254) 776-4888 to schedule an appointment.