Make over your grocery list

Give your fridge and pantry a makeover with these mouth-friendly shopping tips. Here’s what to keep and what to toss.

Keep: Milk, Toss: Chocolate milk

The calcium in milk is good for your teeth and jawbone. People who get the right amount of calcium are also less likely to develop gum disease. But don’t minimize the health effects of this calcium-rich beverage by loading it up with cavity-causing sugars. Stick to plain varieties — and remember to brush afterward.

Keep: Water, Toss: Juice

While some juices come with the benefits of vitamins, many are acidic and loaded with sugar and empty calories. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your teeth without any of the sugar. As an added bonus, if you live in an area that fluoridates its tap water, your tap water can help strengthen your tooth enamel.

Keep: Yogurt, Toss: Ice cream

Craving something sweet? Instead of filling your freezer with ice cream, make your own homemade smile-friendly and calcium-rich frozen yogurt by combining four simple ingredients.

Keep: Cucumbers and other crunchy veggies, Toss: Chips

Turning to veggies instead of your favorite bag of chips might not have the same initial appeal, but hear us out! Cucumbers, carrot sticks, cauliflower and other raw veggies offer the satisfying crunch you crave, without adding starches that can stick to your teeth. And, they deliver fiber along with tooth-strengthening vitamins. Wash and chop your veggies so they’ll be ready for your next snack attack.

Last updated November 12, 2021