Amidst the many “super foods” that have become trendy in recent years, one has long been known for the nutritional punch it packs: spinach. This leafy green contains potassium, vitamin C, iron, calcium and more. Some people may shy away from it because of the funny feeling it leaves on their teeth, however—even believing it’s bad for their oral health. There’s no need to run to your dentist in a panic after consuming some spinach. With October marking Spinach Lovers Month, it’s time to explain what that strange sensation is all about. 

Where the Strange Spinach Feeling Comes From

If you’ve ever noticed a chalky feeling on your teeth after consuming spinach, you may have wondered if the greens weren’t properly washed. In fact, that feeling is because of the large amounts of oxalic acid spinach contains.

This naturally occurring chemical combines with the calcium in your saliva as you chew, creating tiny crystals as the two substances mineralize. These crystals are to blame for that gritty feeling in your mouth—but they aren’t bad for you.

Why You Should Still Enjoy Spinach

Spinach is good for your oral health and your dentist would be sure to approve it as part of a healthy diet. The vitamin C it contains helps nurture healthy gum tissues while calcium encourages strong teeth. 

If that chalky sensation on your teeth really bothers you, you can always turn to smoothies. Blending the greens so you can sip them instead of chewing them allows you to avoid the mineralization process. If you don’t love the taste of spinach, a handful of berries can mask it. 

When you have questions about your oral health, ask Anchorage Dental Center. Dentist James Driskell took over this family-run dental clinic from his father, who first founded it in 1964, and is proud to follow in his footsteps by serving the community. Practicing dentistry for the entire family, he and his team offer comprehensive services, from teeth cleanings to root canals. Get an overview of all they offer online. For an appointment with the dentist, call (907) 278-2521.