"harder cheeses have a texture that naturally helps scrub away plaque as you chew"
Interesting point, but honestly, I'm not sure how much cheese texture alone can really help with plaque removal. My kid's dentist emphasized that while cheese is beneficial overall (especially for neutralizing acids), it's still no substitute for proper brushing and flossing. I mean, chewing cheese might help a bit, but relying on it too much seems like wishful thinking...though I agree, aged cheddar is delicious.
Haha, totally get what you're saying—cheddar IS tasty. My daughter loves nibbling on cheese cubes after meals, and while I doubt it's doing heavy lifting plaque-wise, at least it's healthier than candy...small wins, right?
Cheese cubes are def better than candy, but I've always wondered—does anyone know if certain cheeses are actually better at protecting teeth? Like, is cheddar special or would mozzarella do the trick too?
My dentist actually mentioned cheddar specifically because it's aged and has less lactose, which apparently helps neutralize acids better. But honestly, I snack on mozzarella sticks all the time and haven't had cavities lately...so maybe they're both good?
Cheddar's probably better overall because of the aging process, but mozzarella isn't bad either. I've had braces and retainers for years, and my orthodontist always said the key is really just rinsing your mouth with water after snacking—especially if it's something sticky or sugary. Cheese in general helps neutralize acids, so you're probably fine with either one as long as you're keeping up good habits. Honestly, moderation and a quick rinse afterward have worked wonders for me.
