Surviving Summer Without Destroying Your Enamel

From backyard BBQs to poolside snacks, this season serves up a steady stream of sugary, acidic, and sticky foods that can quietly do a number on your teeth. Here’s what to look out for — and how to enjoy summer without paying for it at your next dental visit.

The Sneaky Culprits:

  • Ice Cream and Frozen Treats - Sugar aside, the cold temperature can make sensitive teeth scream — especially if enamel is already worn down.

  • Soda, Lemonade, and Sports Drinks - These are acidic and sugary, a double-whammy for enamel erosion. And sipping them over hours keeps your teeth bathed in acid.

  • BBQ Sauce and Ketchup - Sticky, sugary, and acidic. Even savory dishes come with a side of dental risk.

  • Corn on the Cob and Ribs - Not bad for teeth per se, but notorious for dislodging fillings or braces — and lodging food between teeth.

  • S’mores and Sticky Sweets - Marshmallows and caramel cling to teeth long after the fun ends, feeding cavity-causing bacteria.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Smile:

  • Drink water between or after treats to rinse away sugars and acids.

  • Use a straw for sugary drinks to limit contact with teeth.

  • Don’t brush immediately after something acidic — wait 30 minutes to avoid scrubbing softened enamel.

  • Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol to stimulate saliva and neutralize acids.

You don’t have to give up your favorite treats to protect your teeth. It’s all about balance, awareness, and a few smart habits that keep your enamel strong.

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