Taking care of your teeth: foods and drinks to avoid this summer

Taking care of your teeth is always essential, but with the arrival of summer it is important to pay special attention.

It is common to enjoy meals, picnics and drinks outdoors. However, it is important to be aware that some popular foods and drinks can be harmful to your dental health. In this article, we’ll tell you about the foods and drinks you should avoid to keep your teeth strong and healthy during the summer season.

Soft drinks:

Carbonated drinks, such as soft drinks, are highly acidic and contain high levels of sugar. These two factors combined can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay.

Instead, opt for water, unsweetened herbal teas.

Fruit juices and smoothies:

Any packaged or pre-made juices should be avoided because of their high sugar content and low nutritional value.

Although 100% natural, freshly squeezed fruit juices and smoothies can be refreshing and nutritious, they often contain high amounts of sugar and acids that can damage your teeth. In addition, when drinking these liquids, the sugars and acids are likely to stick to your teeth for longer, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Try to limit your intake and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.

Acidic fruits:

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy fresh, juicy fruits, but be careful with acidic fruits such as citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, grapefruit) and tropical fruits (pineapple, kiwi, limes). These fruits contain citric acid, which can wear down tooth enamel over time. Don’t avoid them completely, but be sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating them.

Ice cream and frozen desserts:

Ice cream and frozen desserts are tempting and refreshing on hot days, but their high sugar content can wreak havoc on your teeth. In addition, some ice creams contain dyes that can stain tooth enamel. Try to limit your consumption and, if you enjoy them, make sure you brush your teeth afterwards.

Sticky foods:

Sticky treats, such as candy, can stick to your teeth and get trapped between them, encouraging bacteria to grow and cavities to form. If you’re craving something sweet, opt for snacking on fresh fruit or choose sugar-free options.

However, as we are aware that fruit is one of the great summer treats, there are several refreshing and nutritious fruits that are recommended for consumption and beneficial for dental health. Here are some fruits that are good for your teeth:

1. Apples:

Apples are an excellent choice for dental care. Their crunchy texture acts like a natural toothbrush, helping to remove plaque and food debris from teeth. In addition, chewing an apple stimulates good chewing and the production of saliva, which helps neutralise harmful acids in the mouth.

2. Strawberries:

These delicious fruits are rich in vitamin C, which aids in the production of collagen to maintain healthy gums. Strawberries also contain antioxidants that fight inflammation and promote overall good oral health.

3. Watermelon:

Watermelon is a hydrating, low-sugar fruit that is ideal for summer. Its high water content helps keep the mouth hydrated, which is important for saliva production and the prevention of dry mouth. In addition, watermelon is rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the gums.

Remember that, although these fruits are beneficial for dental health, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, such as brushing your teeth three times a day, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly.

Enjoying the summer doesn’t mean you should neglect your dental health. By knowing what foods and drinks can affect your teeth, you can make more informed choices to maintain a healthy smile.

Have a summer full of healthy smiles!

Your health is our priority.