Summer should be full of laughter, sunshine, and yes—even sweet treats. The key is balance and a little know-how. By choosing smile-friendly options and keeping a few simple habits in mind, you can keep your teeth healthy all season long.
If you’re due for a cleaning or want to talk about strengthening your enamel before your next snowball run, Ellicott Mills Dental is here to help. Schedule a summer check-up and let’s keep that smile bright!
The Good Guys: Tooth-Friendly Summer Treats
Watermelon – Sweet, Juicy, and Hydrating
This iconic summer fruit does more than just quench your thirst. Watermelon is 92% water, making it great for keeping your mouth hydrated. And hydration matters—a moist mouth helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids.
Bonus? Watermelon is low in acid and sugar, making it a better choice than citrus-heavy or dried fruit snacks.
Cheese – Say "Cheese" for a Reason
Cheese isn’t just for charcuterie boards. It's rich in calcium and phosphorus, which help strengthen enamel.
Even better, it promotes saliva production—your body’s natural defense against cavities. Enjoy it sliced, cubed, or melted on a burger (just go light on the ketchup!).
Nuts – Crunch with Benefits
Almonds, cashews, and peanuts are packed with protein and minerals that support tooth strength. Plus, they don’t cling to your teeth like chewy snacks do.
Just be cautious if you have dental work—don’t go cracking open pistachios with your molars!
The Not-So-Good Guys: Smile-Sabotaging Snacks
Enjoy these in moderation
Sticky Candies & Taffy – Dental Work's Worst Enemy
Gummy worms, caramels, and saltwater taffy may be fun at the boardwalk, but they’re not fun for your fillings.
These sticky sweets get lodged in hard-to-clean places and feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Sugary Popsicles & Slushies – Cool but Cavity-Causing
Sure, they’re refreshing. But many of these frozen treats are loaded with sugar—and they often sit on your teeth longer as you slowly suck on them.
That prolonged exposure creates a perfect environment for cavities to thrive.
Acidic Sports & Energy Drinks – Sneaky Smile Saboteurs
Even the zero-sugar versions can harm your enamel. Why? It’s the acidity.
Drinks like Gatorade and Monster can erode enamel over time, making teeth more sensitive and more vulnerable to decay—even without added sugar.
Tips for Treating Your Teeth Right This Summer
We’re not here to ruin your beach vibes—we just want to help you snack smart. Here’s how to enjoy the summer fun without a post-vacation dental visit:
- Drink water after sugary snacks – It helps rinse away residue and dilute acids.
- Chew sugar-free gum – Especially gum with xylitol, which can reduce bacteria.
- Keep treats to mealtime – Your mouth produces more saliva when eating a full meal, which helps offset acid and sugar.
- Don’t brush immediately after acidic foods/drinks – Wait about 30 minutes to let your enamel re-harden before brushing.
