Burgers, BBQs, ice cream, popsicles — it must mean summer’s here once again! And with all the delicious sweet treats to keep you fresh, along with those BBQ favourites like corn on the cob being served, your teeth can endure a little more wear and tear during the summer season. That’s why it’s important to watch out for summer cuisine and be more cautious about things that can easily cause damage to your teeth. To help ensure your indulgences don’t land you in the dentist chair, check out these five food items that you need to be cautious of before you dive in.
BBQ Meat
Nothing says summer like a nice steak or hamburger smothered in BBQ sauce. But a lot of those store-bought sauces contain a good amount of sugar which can speed up the effects of tooth decay. So try to make sure that you brush your teeth regularly!
Salad Dressings
Salads are the perfect summer food – they’re fresh, crisp, and healthy. However, they’re often topped with salad dressings that are packed with sugar and vinegar. If you’re not careful, that nutritious salad can quickly turn into an unhealthy meal that can harm your tooth enamel.
Candy Apples
It’s not really summer without a trip to the local fair. And while it can be an incredibly fun time, the food there is often terrible for your teeth. Candy apples are especially harmful because of the hard, sugar-coated surface, which is why we recommend avoiding them altogether or brushing after consuming them.
Corn On The Cob
Eating corn on the cob may be a great summer tradition, but we recommend cutting the kernels off the cob first to prevent any damaged fillings or chipped teeth. Also, remember to brush and floss as soon as you’re done eating, as the kernels can get stuck in between your teeth and lead to plaque and cavities.
Iced Treats
Ice cream, freezies, and popsicles are staple when the heat picks up. Besides being refreshing and delicious, they’re also loaded with sugar. So if you have a sweet tooth, it’s best to limit yourself to an iced treat once a week to avoid damaging your teeth.
When it comes to summer cuisine, it’s okay to eat all your favourite foods. Just remember that moderation is essential and that you can help reduce your risk of tooth decay and cavities by brushing and flossing immediately after eating. For more helpful tips on how to maintain a healthy smile all summer long, contact us at Carlingwood Dental.
