Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Valentine’s Day Treats To Make Your Teeth Happy

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While Valentine’s Day may have started as a holiday to just give a card or flowers to your loved ones, it’s turned into a massive day for celebration. For many people, Valentine’s Day means showering the ones they love with chocolates, candy, and other foods and drinks that aren’t always so good for your oral health. The good news is there are many less-sugary treat options that taste just as good. Show your teeth some love this Valentine’s Day by indulging in these less sweet treats.

  • Strawberries. They’re sweet, they’re red…what could be more appropriate for Valentine’s Day than strawberries? While a healthy choice all around, strawberries are also great for the teeth as the malic acid they contain acts as a natural teeth whitener. Look for extra-large strawberries in the grocery store; many locations carry them this time of year just for Valentine’s Day.
  • Dark chocolate. If your sweetheart is a chocolate-lover, opt for dark chocolate rather than milk or white. It’s lower in sugar and contains compounds that help fight plaque, tooth decay, and bad breath. Choose a small pack of decadent dark chocolate; not only will it taste divine, but it will also serve as built-in portion control.
  • Sugar-free candy. Many name-brand candies (think Reese’s, Hershey’s etc.) are available in sugar-free versions. These options have the same flavor profile and are considered just as satisfying to many. Hard, sticky candies are much worse for your teeth than chocolate however, so avoid them as much as possible. Give sugar-free candy a try this Valentine’s Day and see what you think!
  • Chocolate-covered fruit or nuts. If you’re going to give your loved one chocolate for Valentine’s Day, you might as well have it cover a fruit or nut to make it a little healthier! Strawberries, pineapple, apples, bananas, and raisins are all delicious when covered with chocolate. Peanuts, almonds, and cashews are the go-to nuts to douse in chocolate.
  • Cheese and crackers. Going out for a romantic dinner? Set the mood with an appetizer cheese and cracker board at home. Cheese contains dairy which helps to strengthen your teeth as well as good proteins and fats that can help reduce plaque. Splurge on the fancy cheeses for the occasion and pair with whole wheat crackers.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Vacendak! We love providing our patients with the best care possible. To schedule your next appointment, call us at (757) 609-3510 or contact us online. We look forward to seeing you soon.