In celebration of National Dentist Day, dentists at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas offer suggestions for the best foods to protect your smile.

National Dentist Day is today, and the dentists at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry remind you to brush, floss and visit your local dentist twice a year for professional cleanings. In between those cleanings, here are five foods – sometimes called natural toothbrushes – dentists suggest eating to protect your teeth:

Carrots

Chewing raw carrots helps remove debris from your teeth and may offer your gums a gentle massage.

“The vitamin A and calcium in carrots are beneficial for dental enamel,” said Dr. Janna Burnett, clinical associate professor in the comprehensive dentistry department.

“Beta carotene, found in carrots, is excellent for bone health and can help strengthen your jaws,” Burnett said.

Celery

The fibrous texture of celery helps disrupt plaque biofilm. Celery has similar benefits to carrots in terms of being rich in calcium and vitamin A. The crunchy texture is beneficial for bone health.

Cheese

Cheese is high in calcium and phosphate, which is beneficial for bone health. Cheese also helps to neutralize an acidic oral environment. The addition of cheese may help prevent demineralization of dental enamel. Cheese also increases salivary production, which in turn can wash away sugar and bacteria.

Avocados

The healthy fats and antioxidants found in avocados are beneficial for fighting inflammation, which may be beneficial for periodontal health. They are rich in vitamins E, K and C and potassium, which help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Strawberries

“While some acids may contribute to enamel demineralization, the malic acid found in strawberries may help reduce tooth surface stains,” Burnett said.

Some studies show strawberries contain elements that help prevent pathogenic oral bacteria from causing damage to the teeth; however, those pesky strawberry seeds could get stuck in your teeth – a natural reminder to keep flossing.

With all food, remember to sip water instead of soda, juice or alcohol during and after eating. Drinking water during and after meals helps to remove food particles and helps keep your mouth’s natural pH balance. The American Dental Association recommends water with fluoride because it provides additional protection against cavities.

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry faculty, dental students and dental hygiene students will offer oral screenings and dental kits to adults and children from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at the city of Carrollton’s third-annual Health & Safety Fair at Standridge Stadium. There’s no charge for the screenings. 

The city’s public safety departments present the fair in partnership with Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District, Kacie’s Run and Metrocrest Hospital Authority, information provided by the city stated. The fair also includes other health screenings, games, educational displays and free food from local vendors.

This is the dental college’s first year to participate. It’s doing so thanks to a grant from MHA to improve oral health in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch community.

“By providing accessible, firsthand information from dental professionals, we can empower families to break the cycle of dental disease before it requires costly and more complex treatment,” said Dr. Luz “Lucy” Mendoza, program manager in the college’s public health sciences department.

The stadium is at 1330 Valwood Parkway.

Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is teaming up with 88 Jersey Mike’s Subs locations across DFW in March to raise funds in the fight against pediatric cancer. As part of Jersey Mike’s 15th Annual Month of Giving, the campaign will culminate on Wednesday, March 26, with 100% of all sales donated to WOKC in support of DFW kids (and their families) battling cancer.

“Ever since I lost my mother to cancer, I have made it my mission to provide hope for those facing this disease,” said Wipe Out Kids Cancer Founder, Cindy Brinker Simmons. “We are incredibly grateful to partner with Jersey Mike’s for the 15th year and deeply appreciate their generous customers as we continue to touch the lives of families in our community.”

Known for its authentic fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, Jersey Mike’s 15th Annual Month of Giving fundraising campaign helps make a difference in the lives of children battling this devastating disease.

During the month of March, customers can choose to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or donate $1, $3, or $5 when placing their order.

The highlight of the Month of Giving campaign is Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 26, the largest fundraising opportunity of the campaign. On this day, customers are invited to visit their local Jersey Mike’s with 100% of the day’s sales, donated to WOKC.

“Wipe Out Kids Cancer is dedicated to fighting pediatric cancer and the funds raised during the Jersey Mike’s Annual Month of Giving will support programs that serve the entire family and provide comfort and hope during this difficult time,” said Kris Cumnock, CEO of WOKC. “Our partnership with Jersey Mike’s allows us to continue to positively impact kids and families throughout DFW.”

Every sandwich purchased, every rounded-up order, and every dollar donated will help children in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Join the fight against pediatric cancer by visiting your local Jersey Mike’s this March—because every bite provides a ray of sunshine for families who need it most.

As a result of remarkable medical advancements, the survival rate for childhood cancer has risen from 10% forty years ago to 85% today. However, the number of diagnosed cases has remained unchanged for nearly two decades. 

Every diagnosis shatters a family’s world, and WOKC is committed to helping children and their loved ones navigate the most difficult time of their lives. The services WOKC provides to the entire family makes that possible and the cutting-edge research WOKC funds make treatments less invasive and more effective. 

About Jersey Mike’s

Since 1956, Jersey Mike’s has been serving A Sub Above. Customers can count on an authentic tasting submarine sandwich made with high quality ingredients on every visit. Fresh-baked bread, freshly sliced meats and cheeses, and made-to-order subs are all guaranteed. Making a difference in local communities is at the heart of Jersey Mike’s mission. This year, Jersey Mike’s is celebrating its 15th annual Month of Giving aiming to raise record-breaking amounts for more than 200 charities across America. For more on Jersey Mike’s, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or visit jerseymikes.com.

About Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs that serve entire families. One of those programs is the iconic “Buddy Bag” that is waiting on every child hospitalized with cancer in DFW. WOKC also prioritizes investing in innovative research that leads to new discoveries and advancements in treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.

When Rodeo Celina returns to the famed Southfork Ranch, guests will be surrounded by not only the spirit of the American West but also a sense of community commitment. Collin County’s only PRCA-sanctioned rodeo will be held at the beautiful rodeo arena created specifically for this second-annual event from Friday, May 30 to Sunday, June 1, 2025.

On Friday and Saturday, the rodeo performances will begin at 6:30 p.m. with Mutton Bustin’ featuring some of the region’s cutest little cowboys and cowgirls. Rodeo competition begins at 7 p.m. Sunday’s matinee rodeo will feature Mutton Bustin’ at 1:30 p.m. with the competition beginning at 2 p.m.

Rodeo Celina tickets will be available beginning on Monday, March 10 at RodeoCelina.com. Adult tickets are $20, and tickets for children ages 3-10 are $12. Kids 2 and younger get in free.

The action-packed rodeo will feature all the events that fans have come to expect, including steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding and bull riding. Rodeo Celina has brought together some of the leading names in rodeo to create a world-class event. Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame member Sammy Andrews will serve as stock contractor and acclaimed rodeo announcer T.C. Long will return as well. Professional comedy barrelman and rodeo clown Kyle “Hashtag” Lamon will keep the energy up for the entire weekend. Fourteen-year-old trick rider Liberty Cunningham brings one of the most acclaimed acts in the country to North Texas.

Each day of Rodeo Celina has a special theme and beneficiary. Friday, May 30 is Thank a Veteran Night benefiting the American Legion Post 145. On Saturday, May 31, everyone is invited to be Tough Enough to Wear Pink, which benefits the Tuman Breast Health Foundation. Sunday, June 1 is celebrated as Orange Out for the Celina Bobcats, which benefits the Celina ISD FFA program.

“Southfork Ranch is the perfect place for Collin County’s only PRCA rodeo,” said Sean Terry, a Rodeo Celina member and VP of Entitlements for Centurion American Development Group, which owns Southfork Ranch. “We invite not only all of Celina but all North Texans to join us in this exciting weekend of Western entertainment and action.”

Rodeo Celina is presented by Rex Real Estate. For information on sponsorships or memberships, visit RodeoCelina.com or email giddyup@rodeocelina.com

Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is teaming up with 88 Jersey Mike’s Subs locations across DFW in March to raise funds in the fight against pediatric cancer. As part of Jersey Mike’s 15th Annual Month of Giving, the campaign will culminate on Wednesday, March 26, with 100% of all sales donated to WOKC in support of DFW kids (and their families) battling cancer.

“Ever since I lost my mother to cancer, I have made it my mission to provide hope for those facing this disease,” said Wipe Out Kids Cancer Founder, Cindy Brinker Simmons. “We are incredibly grateful to partner with Jersey Mike’s for the 15th year and deeply appreciate their generous customers as we continue to touch the lives of families in our community.”

Known for its authentic fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, Jersey Mike’s 15th Annual Month of Giving fundraising campaign helps make a difference in the lives of children battling this devastating disease.

During the month of March, customers can choose to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or donate $1, $3, or $5 when placing their order.

The highlight of the Month of Giving campaign is Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 26, the largest fundraising opportunity of the campaign. On this day, customers are invited to visit their local Jersey Mike’s with 100% of the day’s sales, donated to WOKC.

“Wipe Out Kids Cancer is dedicated to fighting pediatric cancer and the funds raised during the Jersey Mike’s Annual Month of Giving will support programs that serve the entire family and provide comfort and hope during this difficult time,” said Kris Cumnock, CEO of WOKC. “Our partnership with Jersey Mike’s allows us to continue to positively impact kids and families throughout DFW.”

Every sandwich purchased, every rounded-up order, and every dollar donated will help children in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Join the fight against pediatric cancer by visiting your local Jersey Mike’s this March—because every bite provides a ray of sunshine for families who need it most.

As a result of remarkable medical advancements, the survival rate for childhood cancer has risen from 10% forty years ago to 85% today. However, the number of diagnosed cases has remained unchanged for nearly two decades. 

Every diagnosis shatters a family’s world, and WOKC is committed to helping children and their loved ones navigate the most difficult time of their lives. The services WOKC provides to the entire family makes that possible and the cutting-edge research WOKC funds make treatments less invasive and more effective. 

Since 1956, Jersey Mike’s has been serving A Sub Above. Customers can count on an authentic tasting submarine sandwich made with high quality ingredients on every visit. Fresh-baked bread, freshly sliced meats and cheeses, and made-to-order subs are all guaranteed. Making a difference in local communities is at the heart of Jersey Mike’s mission. This year, Jersey Mike’s is celebrating its 15th annual Month of Giving aiming to raise record-breaking amounts for more than 200 charities across America. For more on Jersey Mike’s, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or visit jerseymikes.com.

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs that serve entire families. One of those programs is the iconic “Buddy Bag” that is waiting on every child hospitalized with cancer in DFW. WOKC also prioritizes investing in innovative research that leads to new discoveries and advancements in treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.