Summer is the season of sunshine and sweet treats. Enjoying fun foods occasionally is perfectly fine, but sometimes we need to take a moment to think about the impact our favourite snacks have on our teeth.
Fortunately, there are many alternatives available that taste just as delicious and will keep you cool, while preserving your oral health.
If you’re looking for more information on maintaining good dental hygiene in Millwoods during the summer months, we invite you to contact Agape Dental Clinic. Our knowledgeable, kind dentist near you is happy to meet with you during a consultation and guide you down the best path to preserve your oral health.
Tooth-Friendly Snacks
Outlined below are some of the best snack options for you and your smile when the sun’s out and you’re looking to satisfy your cravings:
Fresh Fruits
Summer is one of the best seasons to acquire fresh, juicy fruits like watermelon, berries, peaches, and cherries. These choices are dense with vitamins and will keep you hydrated.
- Why It’s Good: Fruits like apples and pears act like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing your teeth as you chew. Also, due to their high water content, natural sugars are diluted, and saliva is generated, washing away unhealthy debris.
- Tips to Enjoy: Pick whole fruits rather than those that are dried or canned. The latter often have a higher sugar content and can stick to your teeth, and, therefore, are harder to brush off. Pineapple and other citrus fruits can counteract this.
Frozen Yogurt
If you’re in the mood for something cold, why not try frozen yogurt? This is a great substitute for ice cream and shaved ice.
- Why It’s Good: Yogurt contains calcium and phosphates that strengthen tooth enamel against cavities. Probiotics support your oral microbiome and gum health.
- Tips to Enjoy: Opt for plain or low-sugar options. If you want to add toppings, opt for berries over candy, sprinkles, or chocolate. Be mindful of your portion sizes too!
Cheese and Veggie Trays
Before you reach for that bag of chips at your family’s next BBQ, consider going for an alternative like cheese cubes, crunchy veggies, and hummus.
- Why It’s Good: Cheese is rich in calcium and casein, which protect your smile’s enamel and neutralize acid in the mouth. Just like fruits, crunchy veggies like carrots and celery stimulate saliva to naturally clean your teeth.
- Tips to Enjoy: Choose raw, fiber-rich vegetables and cheeses. Cheeses that are overly processed may contain unhealthy and unnecessary ingredients.
Infused Water and Iced Herbal Teas
Staying hydrated is crucial, but consuming soda and sweet tea to stay cool can leave your teeth covered in acids and sugars that contribute to tooth decay.
- Why It’s Good: Water keeps your mouth moist and washes away particles that can lead to infection, inflammation, or cavities. Herbal teas without sugar are just as flavourful as sweetened teas and are packed with antioxidants.
- Tips to Enjoy: For a refreshing twist on water, try infusing water with cucumber or strawberries! If you want iced tea, try unsweetened tea, and rinse your mouth afterward to avoid stains accumulating on your teeth.
Sugar-Free Popsicles
It’s hard to beat a popsicle on a scorching day. Luckily, there are ways to enjoy this icy treat without overloading on sugar.
- Why It’s Good: Sugar-free or low-sugar versions don’t encourage the amalgamation of harmful bacteria, unlike regular popsicles. You can even make your own at home with real fruit!
- Tips to Enjoy: Combine watermelon, strawberries, and a splash of lemon juice, pour into molds, and freeze. Your DIY popsicles will taste just as good while giving your teeth a well-deserved break from sugar.
Nuts and Seeds
Nothing beats trail mix on a road trip or during a hike. Instead of a combination of candy, fill up a bag with various nuts and seeds. They’re satisfying, nutritious, and won’t stick to your teeth like gummy snacks.
- Why It’s Good: Nuts are rich in calcium and phosphorus, which help preserve and strengthen tooth enamel.
- Tips to Enjoy: Stick to raw or dry-roasted varieties free of added sugar or salt. Be careful with very hard nuts if you have dental work or sensitive teeth. If you feel like something is amiss once you bite down into your snack, don’t be shy about contacting our dentist in Millwoods. They can assess your smile and let you know if everything looks good.
Snacks to Limit
Dentists advise patients to limit their intake of acidic and sticky treats, including sour/acidic and hard candies, soda, and beer. Acidic foods can soften tooth enamel, leaving your smile more susceptible to damage. Sticky candies can get lodged between teeth, making them difficult to clean away, while hard candies can contribute to tooth fractures or even jaw strain.
Should you decide to eat such things, remember, moderation is key. Swish water around your mouth afterwards. Once 30 minutes or so has passed, brush and floss, this will help prevent you from harming your softened enamel.
Protect Your Smile, Enjoy Your Summer
Summer is all about enjoying yourself, which often encompasses treating yourself to a fun snack or drink. So long as you’re aware of what you’re eating and remember that a balanced diet is key, you’ll be able to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Continuing to visit your dentist for dental hygiene treatment near you is essential. They can detect issues early and ensure you receive the care you need before it gets out of hand. Furthermore, adhere to your daily hygiene regimen, even if you’re on vacation. Doing so will help you enjoy the season and all the flavors that come with it.
Book a consultation with our skilled dentist today and learn more about looking after your smile. We look forward to helping you enjoy the sunshine and the fresh air! Please call or email us today.
