Save Your Smile This Summer
How to Keep Your Smile Safe at Family Get-Togethers, Backyard Barbecues, and More!
No summer vacation is complete without a summer gathering at the beach, on the lake, or with family and friends in the backyard. While it’s important to have fun and share a good meal with those we love most, don’t fall victim to an easily-avoidable dental disaster.
Here are a few tips just in time for your next summer outing!
Protect your smile this summer by making healthy choices at the backyard barbecue.
5 Things to Remember at the Summer Party
Did you know that, according to the American Dental Association, most people think that chewing ice is good for your teeth? We’re here to tell you that it’s not!
1. Avoid Chewing Ice
Just because ice is made of water doesn’t make it a healthy thing to chew. Although it may seem harmless, chewing on ice and other substances like hard candies can potentially break or chip your teeth!
2. Watch What You Eat
Starchy foods like potato chips, beans, and corn on the cob are practically a summer party staples. Options that are high in starch easily become stuck in your teeth, exposing them to their sugars for a longer time than most other foods – leading to decay.
If you do plan to indulge in these foods, make sure you brush and floss afterwards to remove any trapped food particles. Don’t want to pack a toothbrush? Bring some sugarless gum! Chewing ADA approved gum helps stimulate saliva production and can even remove food in your smile.
Starchy snacks like potato chips may taste good, but they can easily get stuck in your teeth!
NEED A DISH FOR THE POTLUCK?
Make a charcuterie board complete with colorful vegetables, fruits, and cheese! These are all great snack options that will keep your tummy full and your smile healthy.
3. Teeth are for Smiles and Eating ONLY
Did you know that injuries caused by beer bottles make up the largest percentage of BBQ-related dental problems?
Have you ever gone to a party and managed to lose the bottle opener? This is a frequent dilemma that can lead to crazy ideas like opening bottles with your teeth. DON’T DO THIS! Using your teeth to open a bottle is almost a surefire way to cause a tooth injury.
4. Remember to Hydrate!
Drinks like beer and soda are popular choices for a barbecue – especially on a hot day. Be sure to drink water between these tasty alternatives! Not only is it good for your health and keeps you from becoming dehydrated, but water also keeps your teeth clean and the pH level in your mouth normal.
5. Stick to Your Dental Routine
When the day is done, don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth! Dental hygiene routines are always important, especially on days when we indulge ourselves more than usual.
Don’t forget to show off your pearly whites at the next summer event!
By following these helpful tips, you can make the most out of any summer party without hurting your teeth, and we think that’s something to smile about!
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