Charcuterie Board Ideas That Will Keep You Smiling

Are you excited for the summer? To celebrate the beginning of summer, we have come up with some delicious charcuterie board ideas that you can use for picnics and outdoor gatherings. These ideas will keep your tummy satisfied and your smile healthy! Traditional charcuterie boards often include heavy, processed meats and sugary snacks which can damage your teeth. Continue reading to learn how you can create a board that will help boost the health of your teeth and gums.

Protein-Rich Snacks

Let’s start assembling your board with cheese and lean meats. Cheese is rich in calcium and phosphate which are great for strengthening your tooth enamel. We recommend including different types like cheddar, swiss, gouda, and mozzarella which all help neutralize the acids in your mouth. Turkey, ham, and chicken are not only low in fat but they also help your tooth enamel since they are high in protein and phosphate. If you prefer fish, use salmon on your board. This fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids and will reduce inflammation and promote healthy gums.

Crunchy Fruits and Crisp Vegetables

Fruits and veggies are a must for a healthy charcuterie board. Did you know crunchy fruits like apples and pears help keep your teeth clean? They stimulate saliva production and therefore wash away food particles and bacteria. You can also add some berries for antioxidants and vitamin C which protect your gums.

For vegetables, we recommend adding crisp options like carrots, celery, and cucumber slices. They are full of water and will keep you hydrated. Additionally, they act like a natural toothbrush – with each bite, plaque and food particles are scrubbed away.

Don’t Forget About Nuts and Grains

A charcuterie board isn’t complete without grains and nuts. Switch out regular crackers for whole-grain ones which are high in fiber and nutrients and don’t have added sugars! For nuts, choose almonds and walnuts. They are rich in calcium and zinc – two minerals that support your teeth and gum health!!

What about the Drinks?

Pair your charcuterie board with healthy beverages. Water is always the best option. It’ll keep your smile hydrated and rinse away food particles. If you want something more interesting, we recommend iced herbal teas or white teas. Chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos teas are great herbal options. They have lower acid content and are less likely to stain your teeth. White teas contain fluoride and antioxidants and are great for fighting off bacteria or preventing cavities. Not a fan of tea? Try coconut water. It’s not only refreshing but has calcium and magnesium which are great for your teeth. What’s more, they have antibacterial properties that help reduce the risk of gum disease.

We hope these tips inspire you to choose foods that not only taste good but benefit your smile. At Monarch Dental, we love empowering all our patients with knowledge on selecting the best options for their smile. By proactively choosing foods and beverages that boost your oral health, you’re reducing your chances of developing major oral diseases.

Need an extra smile boost? Book an appointment with your closest Monarch Dental office and our team will give you a checkup to make sure your teeth are in tip-top shape!