Smile and say “cheese” for the good news: Cheese is “grate” for your smile!
This melted gooey goodness pleases your taste buds, tummy and teeth. Cheese is a natural source of calcium, a key nutrient for building and maintaining strong teeth and bones. Cheese also contains a protein that prevents bacteria from sticking to your teeth. One study even suggests that cheddar cheese protects tooth enamel from acid erosion.
Here are the best types for your teeth, as well as a few you should enjoy in moderation:
- Aged cheeses are a smart snack choice. Made with a semi-soft texture, aged cheeses lower the likelihood of tooth decay by cutting the acidity of your saliva. Wondering which aged cheese to slice? Monterrey is a jack-of-all-trades and cheddar is always a sharp selection.
- Bacterial element cheeses, such as blue cheese and brie, are healthy standouts that break the mold. These cheeses are good for your dental health and contain probiotics, beneficial bacteria that can help your immune and digestive systems.
- Anything processed is “nacho” best cheese choice. Most processed foods, including cheese, contain added sugar. When you regularly eat sugar-filled foods, tooth enamel can dissolve, thus increasing your risk for cavities. Always check your labels! Even if the cheese doesn’t taste sweet, it still might contain sugar.
