The Best (and Worst) Summer Foods for Tooth and Gum Health

Summer is a time for backyard barbecues, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks. But while you're enjoying all these delicious seasonal favorites, it's important to keep your oral health in mind.

Some popular summer foods can be great for your teeth and gums, while others can contribute to decay and other dental problems.

Best Summer Foods for Oral Health

Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh produce like apples, carrots, and celery are not only refreshing on a hot summer day, but they also help clean your teeth as you chew. The crunchy texture stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acid and wash away food particles. Plus, these foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that support overall oral health.

Calcium-Rich Dairy Products

Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk are excellent sources of calcium, which we all know is essential for strong teeth and bones. Calcium helps to remineralize tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Choose low-sugar options like plain yogurt, or add a slice of cheese to your burger for a calcium boost.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce are full of a variety of vitamins and minerals that promote oral health. They contain calcium, folic acid, and other nutrients that support healthy teeth and gums. Toss some greens into your summer salads or add them to sandwiches for an extra nutritional punch.

Water

While not technically a food, water is essential for oral health – especially during the hot summer months. Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth clean between brushings. It also helps stimulate saliva flow, which is important for neutralizing acid and preventing dry mouth. Look to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, especially in the summer heat.

Worst Summer Foods for Oral Health

Sugary Drinks

Sodas, sports drinks, and sweetened teas are staples at many summer gatherings, but they can wreak havoc on your teeth. These drinks are loaded with sugar, which feeds the bacteria in your mouth contributing to tooth decay. The acid in these drinks can also negatively impact teeth by wearing away tooth enamel over time. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to preserve enamel.

Sticky Sweets

Summer treats like caramel, taffy, and gummy candies may be tasty, but they're not so great for your teeth. These sticky sweets cling to tooth surfaces, giving bacteria plenty of time to feed on the sugar and produce acid. If you can't resist a sweet treat, opt for chocolate instead – it washes away more easily than sticky candies.

Citrus Fruits

While citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges are refreshing and packed with vitamin C, they're also highly acidic. Eating or drinking large amounts of citrus can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity and decay. If you enjoy citrus fruits or drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help neutralize the acid.

Ice Cream

What would summer be without a cool, creamy scoop of ice cream? Unfortunately, this beloved treat is loaded with sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. If you do indulge, choose flavors without sticky mix-ins like caramel or gummy bears, look for reduced-sugar versions, and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health All Summer Long

In addition to making smart food choices, there are several other steps you can take to maintain healthy teeth and gums all summer long:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth
• Use a mouthwash to help control bacteria and freshen breath
• Wear a mouthguard if you play summer sports
• Keep up with regular dental check-ups and cleanings

By being mindful of your food choices and practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can enjoy all the flavors of summer while keeping your smile healthy.

Book Your Summer Dental Check-Up Today

Summer is a great time to schedule a dental check-up and cleaning. Our experienced team is here to help you maintain optimal oral health all year round. Call us today to book your appointment!