When the days are long, the weather gets hot, and the kids are out of school, families tend to raid the refrigerator more often – for snacks and cold drinks. In fact, studies have shown that people develop more tooth decay during the summer months than at any other time of the year. So it’s even more important to have lots of sugar-free, nutritious foods and beverages on hand, because they’re better for your family’s teeth, as well as being low in calories and easy on the budget.
Excellent choices for snacking are fresh fruits and vegetables – like berries, citrus, melon, peaches, grapes, slices of green or red peppers, or carrots and celery sticks. Other good ideas include nuts, cheese, eggs, plain yogurt, crackers, bread sticks and popcorn. Instead of ice cream or popsicles, try freezing unsweetened fruit juices. Or try combining peanut butter on apples slices, it’s delicious.
For beverages consider unsweetened ice tea or natural fruit juice, but not fruit “drinks” which are high in sugar. The best cold drink, of course, is ice water… but don’t chew the ice!
At Shwedel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, it is our goal to make and keep your smile beautiful. Should you have any questions about the latest ways to keep your mouth healthy or any other dental related topic, please contact us at 313-292-5590 or visit our website www.shwedeldental.com. Have a great summer and we are looking forward to seeing you soon.
