Here's a sweet treat that may actually be good for your teeth: dates.

That's right. Seems nature's candies have one up on chocolate kisses and gobstoppers -- they have a substance that may help strengthen tooth enamel and guard against plaque.

More Reasons to Smile
Dates are rich in the element fluorine -- a component of fluoride, that enamel-friendly compound that can actually help reverse early tooth decay. Dates also provide your body with fiber and important nutrients like vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. Know any other sweet treats that boast such big nutritional benefits?

More to Chew On
While you're grabbing yourself a handful of dates, here are a few other bites that may double as tooth protectors:

• Raisins. Find out how a compound in this healthy snack may help curb cavities.
• Yogurt. Here's how much you need to keep those pearly whites clean.
• Gum. But it needs to have this in it.

Chopper Caveat
Of course, yogurt, gum, and dried fruits like dates can also contain sugar, so any tooth-friendly eating habits still need to be accompanied by no-excuses oral care. That means regularly brushing and flossing. But there may be a big benefit to doing so -- beyond a healthy mouth. Find out what it is here.

Recipe Corner
Dates taste great by themselves. Or you can turn them into something really grand with these quick and easy ideas:

• For a holiday nosh your guests will love, try Date Wraps. They take just minutes to put together.
• For a chocolatey breakfast treat, try Cocoa-Date Oatmeal. It cooks up in a flash.
• For a savory meat dish, try topping chicken with the Rhubarb-Date Chutney from this recipe.

The fruit of the date palm: its possible use as the best food for the future? Al-Shahib, W., Marshall, R. J., International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition 2003 Jul;54(4):247-259.