Pancake Day!

Pancake Day is almost here; traditionally called Strove Tuesday, is known as being a feast day full of eating scrumptious pancakes with family and friends before starting lent.

Here at Kingswood Parks Clinics, the team are always on a mission to increase awareness around tooth decay. Holes or cavities form, when the acid attacks the enamel of the teeth; sugars in drinks and food are a significant cause of the development of caries.

So, why not opt for a healthier pancake alternative this year?

Many of us love sweet pancakes with toppings such as lemon and sugar, Nutella or even syrup.

Lemon and sugar is a popular topping chosen by Brits however it is also one of the worst toppings for your teeth. With the acidity of the lemon together with the sugar, it creates a double acid attack on your teeth which if consumed in large amounts can result in tooth decay or erosion cavities.

A topping like syrup is very sticky and contains high amounts of sugar. If the stickiness of the syrup is left on our teeth this can cause prolonged sugar attacks.

If you really cannot go without the indulgence of a sweet pancakes, then Kingswood Parks top tip would be to chew a sugar free chewing gum after your pancake.

Healthier alternatives this year…

Swapping lemon and sugar for fresh fruit or swapping syrup for a protein based peanut butter would be a healthier alternative.

Why not try one of our favourite pancake recipes:

Healthy Banana Oat Pancakes

Ingredients

• 2 bananas
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup oats
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh fruit of your choice, for topping

Instructions

• In a blender, combine the peeled banana, eggs, oats, baking powder and salt.
• Allow to blend until the mixture is smooth and blended well. Allow the batter to stand for 10-20 minutes until thickened slightly.
• Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
• Fry spoonful’s of the batter until golden brown on both sides.
• Serve with fresh fruit of your choice.

Whether you opt for a healthier option, or indulge in a sweet treat, aim to eat the pancakes at mealtimes, rinse your mouth by drinking water and maintain good oral routines by flossing daily and brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, to help prevent tooth decay. Have fun making and enjoying pancakes this Shrove Tuesday!

Contact – Kingswood Parks Dental & Skin Clinic (kingswoodparksclinics.co.uk)