Swimsuit season is coming up quickly now that the groundhog didn’t see his shadow! You’ve heard the saying, “you are what you eat,” and you already know that making healthy choices can help you look better in your bathing suit (and your regular clothes, too!) and keep your heart, lungs and the rest of your body in good shape. Did you also know that choosing the right foods can keep your teeth strong and healthy? Take a look at this list of foods that will help you keep your smile bright while taking off the inches.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

When you indulge in raw fruits and veggies, you’re not only providing your body with the fiber that will help you lose weight, but you’re also helping your teeth to stay cleaner. Biting into a fresh apple can remove some of the plaque that’s hanging out on your teeth and near your gumline. Also, eating juicy fruits like melon and pears not only help you feel full, but they also dilute the sugars that come into contact with your teeth… and they’re a delicious and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Sugarless Chewing Gum

If you feel like you need to eat something even though you’re not really hungry, chewing a stick of sugar-free gum can help. First, it gives you the satisfaction of chewing, which can satisfy your craving. Secondly, going sugar-free means that you’re not adding calories, no matter how minimal. Chewing gum can strengthen teeth, too; it stimulates saliva production, which can wash away plaque and bacteria. There’s evidence that Xylitol is good for you teeth on its own, too. (Be sure to keep Xylitol-containing gum away from your dog, as it’s toxic to our canine friends.)

Low-Fat Milk

Milk is an important part of many people’s diets, as it is a lean source of protein and calcium. Choose the low-fat or skim variety to reduce the number of calories and fat grams you’re ingesting. Milk is also fortified with vitamin D, which can help with both weight loss and strong teeth. If you don’t like drinking milk, try adding it to a smoothie or enjoy other dairy products, like cheese or yogurt. Don’t overindulge on these if you’re trying to lose weight, but go ahead and incorporate the low-fat variety into your diet if you like them!

Making a few simple substitutions now can help you feel good about yourself and keep your body (and your teeth!) healthy and strong.