MADISON, Wisconsin--Recent studies have shown that what you eat can have a positive and negative impact on oral health. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has issued a “Recipes for a Healthier Smile” e-booklet that features new recipes that dental professionals can share with patients for oral health.The free e-booklet features breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner, and dessert recipes that use fruits, vegetables, grains, and other ingredients experts have identified as “super-smile” foods. The booklet is intended for dental professionals who want to provide healthy, smile friendly recipes to dental patients who seek ways to improve their oral health.Dr. Shawn Frawley, AACD member and Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, is a gourmet cook who worked with nutritionist and health coach Karen Krchma to create the healthy, easy-to-make recipes.“The teeth and gums mirror what’s going on in the rest of your body. Therefore, what you consume influences the health of your smile,” said Dr. Frawley. “That’s why it’s important to think carefully about making the right food choices.”Nutritional considerations for long-term remission of periodontal diseaseThe recipe book uses several “super smile” foods. A study by the Pediatric Caries Research Foundation found that mushrooms contain a sugar called Lentinan that prevents mouth bacteria from growing. Raw onions and wasabi, a Japanese version of horseradish, also contain substances that stop bacteria growth. Based on a 2010 lab-based study in the European Journal of Dentistry, the iron in broccoli may help form an acid-resistant film on teeth. After exposure to an acid-based drink, such as cola, enamel erodes half as quickly when exposed to broccoli.“To have a great smile, a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods will be your best ally,” said Krchma. “This booklet provides a variety of wholesome and tasty recipes with healthful ingredients that will build and strengthen your teeth and gums.”To download a copy of the e-booklet, visit www.aacd.com/smilerecipes. To comment on this subject, go to community.pennwelldentalgroup.com/.