Autumn brings more than mouth-watering seasonal treats. The Staten Island dentists at Oakwood Dental say that as the remaining months dwindle, patients should take advantage of the abundance of local fall foods available that provide various dental-health benefits.

Possibly the most popular fall ingredient, pumpkin is packed with nutrients that are not only great for your overall wellbeing, but specifically your teeth. This fruit provides over 100% of your recommended daily intake of Vitamin A, which can help repair inflamed tissues in the mouth and protect gums. Pumpkin’s high Vitamin C content is helpful in warding off infections in the mouth and repairing tissues due to its collagen-building abilities. It also offers all the oral health benefits of Vitamin B, including prevention against receding gums, mouth sores and bad breath. Minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and potassium found in pumpkin are essential in strengthening teeth. So next time you have a pumpkin, use the pulp and seeds. Even adding pumpkin oil to recipes may help prevent decay and cavities.

This time of year, apples are another well-liked choice for baking and snacking. Aside from nutritional benefits, eating crisp fruits and vegetables that contain a high water content like apples can help stimulate saliva, diluting sugars and rinsing cavity-causing bacteria and acids from the teeth.

Welcome baked goods chocked full of crunchy walnuts that are loaded with vitamins and minerals that strengthen teeth and benefit oral health.

Trying to keep warm as you adjust to the chilly weather? Bring on the tea! Green and black teas contain polyphenols that eliminate bacteria and fight tooth decay. If you need to sweeten it up, try xylitol, which is a natural sweetener that happens to kill bacteria, too.

Of course the best way to ensure your teeth are in tip top shape is to visit one of Oakwood’s Staten Island dentist offices in Tottenville or Oakwood Heights. In between visits, however, follow these tips to enjoy tasty treats that will make your mouth smile!