Cheese is good for your teeth. Research has shown that including a piece of cheese with a meal or snack is one way to encourage good dental health. You are probably saying, “Huh? Please explain this one.”
No Problem. Cheese contains a protein called casein, which actually helps protect teeth from bacteria that cause decay. The fat in cheese tends to coat your teeth and may further help to keep bacteria away from enamel. The calcium and phosphorus contained in cheese help strengthen tooth enamel even as you chew. And finally, cheese is one of those foods that encourages saliva production. Excess saliva washes away food debris and bacteria, and neutralizes the acids those bacteria produce.
It doesn’t matter what type of cheese you eat, although some researchers believe that cheddar offers the most protection. Choose from Brie, Gouda, mozzarella, Swiss, blue, or Monterrey Jack, and eat them in chunks, grated, or melted. It isn’t it wonderful to be able to enjoy something so yummy and know you’re helping your teeth at the same time?
