Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate love and affection with your significant other, and what better way to do so than with a delicious treat? While you celebrate the day of love this year it's important to remember to give your body some appreciation too, and that means being mindful of what you consume. Here are some dental-friendly Valentine's Day treats you can enjoy without worrying about damaging your teeth during this sweet holiday. 

Dental Friendly Valentine's Day Food Ideas

When it comes to Valentine's Day, many people think of candy and chocolate. While there’s no doubt that these treats are tasty, they won’t make your teeth content in the long run. This year enjoy valentine’s day while keeping your dental health in check. Here are some dental-friendly Valentine's Day food and beverage ideas that you can enjoy without worry:

Cheese Board
A platter filled with cheese, crackers, nuts, and fruits is both romantic and an excellent choice for your oral health. Cheese boards are a great option due to the variety of nutrients offered. Cheese naturally strengthens your teeth due to the high levels of calcium and phosphate. Similarly, nuts are also high in calcium and help fight bacteria that lead to common dental issues. Fruits such as grapes are high in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect you from dental problems such as gum disease. Though crackers aren’t favored for good oral health, opting for nutrient dense options will provide some benefit. 

Fruit Bouquet
Fruit is extremely beneficial for your oral health, but no one wants a bowl of fruit on valentine’s day. That is why presentation is key in this instance. Grab a few skewers and put your loved one’s favorite fruit to imitate a flower bouquet. If you are willing to go the extra mile, make some heart shape fruits with a cookie cutter. This works best of fruits such as watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and papaya. You can enjoy the valentine’s day romance while munching on a treat that is filled with vitamins and antioxidants that protect your teeth and promote good oral health. 

Yogurt Bites
Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and helps balance PH levels in your mouth. This healthy option can be created into a delicious sweet treat. Grab some Greek yogurt and berries of choice then blend together. You can add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, then place in some heart shaped moulds and freeze. The end of your valentine’s day can be celebrated with a sweet and nutritious yogurt bite. 

Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Chocolate covered strawberries are a staple during valentine’s day. However, if the strawberries are covered in milk or white chocolate then they aren’t the most favored option by your oral health. Compromising is key in a happy relationship, and that includes your oral health as well. Substitute white or milk chocolate for dark chocolate instead. Dark chocolate has several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help prevent dental problems such as gum disease. Additionally, dark chocolate helps limit bad breath, which is optimal for this romantic holiday. 

Importance of Eating Teeth Friendly Treats
You may be thinking “why can’t I just indulge on any sweet treat this valentine’s day?”. Well of course you can, but then you are putting your oral health at risk of developing dental issues. Healthy can also be delicious, it’s all about preparation and presentation. With the array of holidays we celebrate in Canada every year, having a cheat day will come more often than you think. Good health is all about balance, and it’s possible to enjoy this romantic holiday while taking care of your oral health. Consuming foods high in sugar can lead to dental issues down the line that can be costly and painful. It’s best you take measures to enjoy these holiday’s while maintaining good oral habits. 

Give your loved one, yourself, and your oral health some extra love this valentine’s day. Schedule a dental check-up appointment to ensure your teeth and gums are in strong condition. Visit us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre for any of your dental needs in Ottawa. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Wishing you a happy and loving Valentine’s Day!