The football season’s in full swing, and if you’re headed to your favorite local spot to catch the game with fellow football fans, you can still make sure you’re keeping your teeth healthy, or at least not causing serious damage. Here are the pub cuisine favorites to reach for while you’re watching the game (go Cards!).

  • The bowl of nuts. Is there a bowl of nuts nearby? Keep them coming! Nuts contain protein and calcium, two nutrients that are essential to tooth health. Their crunchiness also promotes saliva flow while you’re munching on them.
  • Reach for the Cheese, too. Not only is cheese in all its forms a classic in the pub, it’s also great for protecting your teeth. Cheese is loaded with calcium, which is great for your pearly whites, and the waxy coating can help protect your teeth from staining.
  • Say Yes to Chicken Wings. The proteins in beef, chicken and turkey are rich in phosphorus, which is a core component of your pearly whites. A protein-rich diet helps teeth stay strong and resilient against decay. Just make sure you rinse, or even sneak off to brush after all that sauce.
  • The Benefits of Beer. While the darker beers can cause staining, much like coffee and tea can, the craft beers that are made mostly from barley and hops contain high levels of silicon and calcium, both of which are great for your teeth. Hops have also been shown to have antibacterial properties and deter development of microorganisms in the mouth. Just make sure you integrate a little water between beverages. This will help counteract the drying effects of alcohol in the mouth and help rinse away any acids or food particles that get stuck.

Taking care of your teeth isn’t all about restricting your diet. With a little care, you can enjoy your Sunday rituals and still protect your smile. Brushing and flossing after a day at the pub is crucial, though, as well as visiting the dentist regularly. If you’re due for a check-up, make an appointment today (Go Cards!).