Dr. Kevin Poupore - August/September 2022

CLEAN YOUR TEETH WHILE YOU CHEW MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SMILE NATURALLY

It is commonly known that certain foods, like those with lots of sugar, are bad for your teeth. However, did you know there are certain foods that can actually clean your teeth? It sounds impossible, but it’s true! These foods are called detergents. You may be thinking of the detergent that goes in your laundry, but that’s not the case here. Detergent foods are specific foods that clean your teeth naturally and keep your smile looking bright. What are detergent foods? Detergent foods are everyday edibles that have a crunchy or coarse texture. These foods act like bristles that scrub our teeth while we eat.

Detergent foods can remove excess materials from the enamel of your teeth without adding any sugars or fats in their place. These types of foods are more beneficial unprocessed and natural. They are typically low in acidity and have properties that help eliminate oral sugars that cling to your teeth and bring down saliva’s overall pH level. The higher the pH level, the higher the acidity levels in your mouth where bacteria can thrive. When should I eat detergent foods? Timing is very important when it comes to detergent foods. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth after every meal, but sometimes it’s just not possible or you don’t have access to a toothbrush. Detergent foods are perfect to eat right after you finish a meal or as a midday snack. That way, the detergent foods can rid your mouth of stuck-on food. Incorporating detergent foods into your diet is one of the easiest, most efficient ways to maintain a healthy smile. Their fibrous texture acts as a natural toothbrush, scrubbing away harmful materials from your teeth. But always remember, these foods aren’t a replacement for brushing and flossing. Research what foods fall into this category and give them a try!

Examples of these foods include, but are not limited to:

• • • • • • •

Carrots Apples

Plain popcorn (no salt, butter, or flavoring)

Celery Pears Lettuce

Cucumbers

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Tasty Bruschetta Chicken Inspired by Delish.com

On the way, we stopped in Albany to play golf. Then, we stopped in Lenox, Massachusetts, to attend Tanglewood, an outdoor musical venue and home to the Boston Symphony in the summer. Mindy was absolutely thrilled, especially after seeing a world renowned pianist named Yuja Wang perform a startlingly powerful Liszt concerto. Little ol’ me? I kinda wish I golfed a little longer. But, hey, you know what they say about happy wives. The next day, we walked around Boston, and there were art festivals going on, which we looked at before our Red Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park. As a smaller stadium, it’s my favorite place to see a game, especially around the seventh inning when everyone sings “Sweet Caroline.” Standing around with Yankees gear, I thought I’d be a little scared for my life in Red Sox territory, but there were some other Yankee fans nearby, so I was somewhat at ease (strength in numbers and all that). Unfortunately, the Yankees lost in extra innings, but it was a very exciting game. Mindy said she was “happy for the Boston Fans because they were so pleased.” I say “Not so much!” But, all in all, my summer vacation feels like a winner in my book. When I see you next, tell me all about YOUR summer vacation! –Dr. Kevin Poupore

Directions 1. Add chicken to a large resealable bag. 2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pour over chicken and seal. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. 3. Turn a grill to medium-high heat and add the chicken. Discard the marinade. Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. 4. Combine the remaining lemon juice, tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Add salt and pepper, to taste. 5. Before taking the chicken off the grill, top each breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Cover and cook 2–3 minutes, then serve topped with the tomato mixture and grated Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients • 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness • 4 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp lemon juice, divided • 1/4 tsp pepper • 1 tsp Italian seasoning • 3 tomatoes, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped • Salt and pepper, to taste • 4 slices mozzarella cheese • Parmesan cheese, grated Fresh tomatoes and basil abound in August, practically begging to become bruschetta! This recipe turns that appetizer into a main dish.

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