Comparing Your Favorite Summer Treats for Teeth
With summer here and temperatures rising, a great way to beat the heat is indulging in a ice-cold snack. Dr. Sutter and the Smile Team wants to remind you that some of those popular summertime treats can put your teeth at risk of decay. So, whether you’re a parent worried about your child’s oral health or someone who is concerned about their own oral health, this list of summer treats for teeth we have complied for you will help you stay prevention oriented all summer!
- Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
Although ice cream and fro-yo are full of sugar, these summer treats are a good source of calcium. Having a diet supplemented with calcium keeps teeth healthy, prevents bone loss and strengthens teeth. Limiting consumption is important for overall and oral health, however it does not need to be avoided completely.
- Snow Cones
This treat may seem pretty harmless, but the syrup they use to flavor the ice can be very high in sugar. These are a common treat linked with gingivitis. An average type of syrup that is used contains 18 grams of sugar in one 1-ounce serving!
Quick Tip:
If you are concerned about the sugar in a snow cone, there are healthy ways you can make them at home. Instead of using the sugary syrup, use 100% fruit juice, nutritious milk (which gives the snow cone a delicious, creamy texture), or even some cold tea or coffee.
- Popsicles
Popsicles are loaded with sugar, and the dyes that are used to color them may stain teeth. Because people don’t usually bite into a Popsicle and finish it off quickly, this means that your teeth are exposed to the sugars and the dyes for awhile. If you are concerned about having that sugar in contact with your teeth, there are, luckily, sugar-free popsicles available.
- Ice
On a hot day, it may seem like a great idea to grab a piece of ice to chew on. However, chewing ice can lead to a cracked tooth. If you have to use ice to cool down, try sucking on a small piece instead of chewing it.
Quick Tip:
Consuming too much sugar can lead to tooth decay, cavities and gum disease. A cavity arises due to the destruction of the outer surface, or enamel, of the tooth. Tooth decay is very common; in fact, 90% of people have at least one cavity. Although tooth decay occurs often and is treatable, it is much easier to prevent tooth decay than to treat it.
- Slurpees
Does summertime bring out the kid in you? If so you may decide to head on down to your favorite mini-mart for a Slurpee right along with your kids. Although this is cool and refreshing on a hot day, it is also extremely high in sugar.
- Smoothie
If you want a treat that won’t make your dentist cringe, your best bet is a homemade smoothie. Put some milk, regular yogurt, yummy summer fruit, and some ice in the blender for a delicious, cool treat that is good for teeth.
When having your summer fun, don’t forget to take care of your teeth! Brush, floss, and visit Dr. Sutter at the Smile Institute! Call (541) 484-1955 to make an appointment today!
