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Most of us are familiar with the dental tips for keeping gums healthy. You know...brushing, flossing and avoiding sticky, sugary foods. But, did you realize, that certain foods are actually good for your teeth and gums. Let’s focus on a couple favorites that are seasonal in March.

Radishes – Biting in to one of these peppery veggies provides your teeth and gums with a great scrubbing action. Radishes are also rich in sulphur and silicon which is great for regeneration of connective tissues found in our bones, skin and gum tissues. Sulphur also helps to relieve pain and inflammation and promotes good bacteria. This veggie is a good source of vitamin C which helps to rebuild tissues and blood vessels and keeping bones and teeth strong. They are also about 95% water making it a good way to stay hydrated.

Parsnips – This March favorite is high in calcium as well as magnesium, which helps the proper absorption of calcium for bone building. 

Brussel Sprouts – Enamel is a tooth’s first defense against cavities. If your enamel is eroded or damaged you put yourself at risk for tooth sensitivity and decay. You can help strenghthen your enamel by eating foods high in calcium. Try this green leafy vegetable. Not only is it high in calcium, it delivers a healthy boost of vitamin C as well. These little guys are super healthy, rich in folic acid and lots of vitamins and minerals that your teeth and gums love.

Try to incorporate one of these great recipes below into your menu plan this week. Your teeth and gums will thank you.

ROASTED RADISH AND BRUSSELS SPROUTS SALAD

Roasted Radish and Brussels Sprouts Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved) (or quartered if they are large)
  • 1 lb radishes (trimmed and halved)
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/8 tsp pepper (or to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

  2. Place all ingredients in a large bowl and toss well to combine.

  3. Spread out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  4. Bake for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are starting to brown and crisp up on the edges.

        5. Serve immediately.

 

Crispy Parsnip Fries

 

Ingredients:

  1. 8 parsnips, peeled, cut into fries.
  2. Marinade

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 200C (392 F)
  2. Peel and wash the parsnip. Remove the extremity and discard.
  3. Cut lengthwise into thin fries. Place into a bowl. Set aside.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, mint and garlic powder or crushed garlic.
  5. Pour the marinade onto fries and massage with your hands.
  6. Add the breadcrumbs, salt and chilli flakes - if desired.
  7. Combine using your hands until each fries has been coated with breadcrumbs.
  8. Place the marinated fries onto a baking tray. Spread into a single layer and make sure that the fries do not touch each others.
  9. Bake the fries for 15 minutes at 200 C (392 F) or until crispy and golden.
  10. Serve immediately with dipping sauce of your choice or hummus or guacamole.

If you would like to schedule a professional cleaning in addition to trying these great seasonal vegetables, please call us at Dr. Joy Lunan’s dental office today. We are always accepting new patients and would be happy to help you on your path to having a healthy teeth and gums.     (203)598-7920    www.middleburydentist.com    Our reviews.

 

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