It’s summer and this hot and humid weather makes many of us wish to subsist on just ice cream and popsicles. You don’t need your dentist to tell you that these sugary treats can lead to cavities and tooth decay. It’s not all bad news, though. We know you want something cold and sweet to ward off the summer heat. This is why we’ve put together a delicious list of cold summer treats that your teeth will appreciate.
Watermelon
One cup of watermelon has 16% of your daily recommended vitamin C. Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong and prevents cellular damage. All of these will keep your teeth and gums healthy. Since watermelon is mostly water, it also washes away bacteria and food particles that may still be in-between your teeth and under your gums. Served cold and in chunks, watermelon is a great snack for young children because it is very easy to chew and can be picked up easily by even the littlest hands!
Homemade Popsicles
Many store-bought popsicles are full of dyes and added sugars, which are not the best things for your teeth. Making popsicles at home is very easy and may even be more cost effective than buying them. Not only this, but they are enormously healthier too. One recipe we like is the “Totally Tropical Popsicle” that’s good for everyone, even babies. Just take one large mango and roughly chop it. Roughly chop two very ripe bananas, and blend all your fruit together with 3/4 cup of coconut milk. Pour your delicious popsicle mixture into popsicle molds, then freeze for about six hours. Enjoy!
Cucumber Water
You should drink plenty of water this summer to stay hydrated. Make your water even healthier by adding a nutritious, fresh fruit like cucumber. To make great-tasting cucumber water, remove some strips of the cucumber skin, alternating 1/2-inch-wide alternating bands of both peeled and unpeeled cucumber. Then, halve the cucumber lengthwise, cut into 1/2-inch slices, and combine the cucumber in a large pitcher of water, “steeping” for about an hour. Drinking lots of water is good for your oral health, as it keeps your mouth hydrated and this will stop harmful bacteria from multiplying too quickly. When you add cucumber, you get the added benefit of extra antioxidants that are good for your skin and reducing redness, which is perfect for the heat of summer!
Our favorite thing about summer is that it’s a great time to bring your whole family in for a dental check-up. Start the summer off right by scheduling your appointment today! Book your appointment online or call our friendly team.