Creating Beautiful,
Healthy Smiles

Huntersville NC Dentist | Say Cheese!

Dentist in Huntersville, NC

It has long been known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is important for developing and maintaining strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy works in the same ways. Did you know that a recent study has found that cheese can actually help protect teeth against cavities?

How does cheese prevent cavities?

Eating cheese helps stimulate the production of saliva in your child’s mouth, which washes away sugars, acids, and bacteria on their teeth. Additionally, cheese is a great source of both calcium and phosphorous, which can help strengthen tooth enamel. What’s more, the scientists who performed the study found that some of the other compounds found in cheese seem to adhere to tooth enamel, further protecting the teeth from acids in the mouth.

Are all cheeses the same?

No, some cheeses are healthier for your family than others. To get the greatest benefit from your child’s cheese intake, stick with real cheese varieties, rather than processed cheeses. American cheese, cheese dips, and pre-packaged cheese products, such as those found in jars or spray cans, have added sugars to enhance their flavor. These sugars can be harmful to teeth, rather than protecting them. In addition, these types of cheese products contain a significantly reduced amount of actual cheese content. These processed cheeses can even wear down tooth enamel, increasing risk of decay.

What kinds of cheese should I give my child?

There are hundreds of types of real cheese available, which are packed with calcium and great for tooth protection. If your child enjoys aged cheeses, Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey jack are all tasty options. If he or she prefers softer cheeses, Mozzarella, Brie, or Camembert may be a great way to make your child smile. Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and other similar cheeses have much to offer for a child with a more expansive palate.

What if we’re on a low-fat diet?

Good news! The fat content of your cheese choices do not affect its ability to protect your child’s teeth. The low-fat or non-fat versions of your child’s favorite varieties of cheese contain just as much calcium, phosphorous, and other tooth-protecting compounds as the full-fat varieties.

With so many great options to choose from, consider offering your child cheese instead of sugary or starchy options for a snack or end of meal treat. Cheese tastes great and is healthy for your child and their teeth. For more ideas for healthy snacking from our Huntersville dentist, contact Tate C. Langdon, DDS, PA of Huntersville, NC.

 

Tate C. Langdon, DDS, PA of Huntersville, NC
Phone: (704) 875-0123
15329 Hodges Cir.
Huntersville, NC 28078

See What Our Patients are Saying

Huntersville, NC Dentist

Dr. Tate Langdon and his staff are absolutely remarkable. Melinda and Lauren at the front desk always give a warm welcome right when you walk in the door. These ladies also, leave kind voicemails to remind you of your appointments. My hygienist Lauren is so attentive and helpful. Lauren always answers my questions and makes my teeth sparkle. Dr. Langdon is gentle, thorough, and will lead you in the right direction for dental care needs with integrity.

-Madolyn S.

Read More Reviews

Visit Our Huntersville Dental Office

Dentist in Huntersville, NC

Office Hours

Monday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Contact Us

15329 Hodges Circle
Huntersville, NC 28078

(704) 875-0123

Schedule an Appointment

Read Our Huntersville Dental News

Dentist in Huntersville, NC

Dentist in Huntersville
15329 Hodges Circle
Huntersville, NC 29078

(704) 875-0123