Dental-Friendly Foods for a Summer Fiesta

Dental-Friendly Summer FoodsSummer is finally here. This is the time of year to break out the grill and patio furniture for a fun-under-the-sun luau. As family dentists, we frown on the typical summer foods, such as potato chips, lemonade, and popsicles. These are teeth destroyers and a no-no on our list. Instead we recommend the following dental-friendly summer foods for your next outdoor soiree.

Dentist-Approved Summer Foods

Crunchy Vegetables

Serve a veggie/fruit platter that includes crunchy apples, carrots, and pears. Crunchy foods are natural toothbrushes that stimulate saliva and scrubs off build-up. Include a ranch or hummus dip; this will make it more enjoyable for the kids.

Cheese

Burger and hotdogs are common summer foods. We don’t exactly approve of them, but we know most people are going to serve them anyways. If so, then throw in a slice of natural cheddar. Dairy contains calcium and phosphorous, which strengthen enamel.

Seedless Foods

Go with the standard bun instead of sesame buns. If you serve sliced watermelon, go for the seedless variety. Seeds get stuck in the teeth and can even cut into the gums. The only exception to this rule is grape seeds, which we do recommend you chew on. One study shows grape seed extract promotes dentin strength.

Fruit-Infused Water

Soda and artificial fruit punch not only destroy enamel, but they also stain the teeth. This is why our cosmetic dentists recommend plain H2O. If you need some flavor, then throw in some fruit, mint or cucumber slices into the pitcher for a natural and lightly-sweetened beverage.

Kick off Summer with a Checkup

Begin the season with a visit to Mukilteo Dental Arts. While our dentists and oral surgeons can take care of your teeth in the clinic, it’s up to you to exercise good eating habits at home. Stick with dental-friendly summer foods to avoid unnecessary dental complications down the line.
Edited by Justin Vorhees

Summer Dental Checkup for the Whole Family

General family dentistry for Mukilteo, Everett, Lynnwood, Edmonds & Mill Creek