One favorite summer activity is picnicking. It’s a great way to enjoy the warm summer sun while bonding with family or friends. Picnics are also great for enjoying tasty snacks and refreshing drinks while enjoying the great outdoors.
However, being conscious of the food and drinks we consume is essential for our overall health. Summer picnics may be fun, but if we don’t watch what we eat and drink, it can significantly impact our well-being, including our dental health.
The American Dental Association (ADA) says that the state of our oral health indicates how our whole body is doing. This holistic approach to our overall health means that the better we care for our teeth, tongue, and gums, the more our bodies will be healthier.
Yes, snacking can contribute to plaque and cavity formation, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to avoid them. Opting for a healthier alternative is the best way to still enjoy snacking during summer picnics.
Let’s first learn the common causes of tooth decay to help you know how snacking affects your dental health.
Tooth Decay: Common Causes
Tooth decay is most common in children and teens but can also affect adults, especially older ones. Pagosa Springs dentists compiled below two of the top causes for cavities and tooth decay:
Bacteria Build-up
Many bacteria live in the mouth, and some are even helpful in breaking down food. However, they can damage teeth and cause problems in the mouth if they grow out of control. Bad dental hygiene, sugary foods, and dehydration are some of the top causes of bacteria buildup.
Bad Hygiene
Good oral hygiene reduces and prevents sugary foods from damaging teeth. On the other hand, poor dental hygiene can leave sugary food particles and other harmful substances in your mouth. This encourages bacteria to thrive and form plaque, a sticky substance that coats your teeth that contributes to cavity development.
Healthy Snacks For Teeth
Healthy foods are excellent alternatives to junk food, which contains sugars and too much salt and carbohydrates. Exchanging them for healthier snacks is better, especially for children who consume so much sugar throughout the day.
Sugar is the most harmful substance to teeth. While it doesn’t directly cause cavities, it does feed bacteria that digest it to produce acidic waste. These acidic wastes slowly dissolve enamel, your teeth’s protective layer. Your teeth become vulnerable to damage and cavities once the enamel becomes too thin.
Here are some healthy snacks you can try to help reduce your sugar consumption:
Dairy Products
Dairy-based snacks like yogurt and cheese are great for your teeth. They have nutrients that are good not just for your oral health but for your whole body. Yogurt and cheese are high in casein, a protein that helps in enamel formation. They are also rich in calcium, phosphorus, and other nutrients that help strengthen the teeth.
The possibilities to create mouthwatering treats and refreshments using dairy products are endless. Grill a slice of cheddar on a hamburger, or make a cheese platter. You can also put some yogurt in the freezer or blend it with your favorite fruits for a smoothie.
Leafy Vegetables
Green leafy vegetables are good for your teeth. Lettuce, spinach, kale, and other leafy veggies are high in vitamins and nutrients, which protect your teeth from infection.
However, leafy greens are a nightmare to feed to children (and some adults, too). That’s why you will have to be extra creative in how you serve them. You can enjoy leafy greens as a tasty salad or purchase them as chips with dips.
Fruits
It would be best if you also replaced soda with fruit juices to better care of your teeth. Aside from being a fun way to stay hydrated, fruit juices also help increase saliva production, which helps promote better oral health.
You can also eat fruits with any meal, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Eat them as is or as a substitute for sweets. You can also use them to cleanse your palate or add flavor to your summer dishes.
Tea
Tea is a healthier option than regular coffee. Unsweetened tea has substances that help to prevent plaque buildup. You can put tea in the fridge and enjoy it cold with other summer treats.
Crunchy Vegetables
Potato chips are a common snack, but they can linger in your mouth and feed harmful bacteria. If you’re in the mood for something crunchy, try raw vegetables. They have a satisfying crunch and act as natural toothbrushes that scrub your teeth. They also stimulate saliva flow, which helps wash away any food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Try raw carrot sticks, celery, and sugar snap peas served with dips to make them more sumptuous.
Infused Water
Sports and drinks and soda are among the worst drinks for your teeth. They can erode your teeth and make your mouth dry, making your teeth more vulnerable to damage.
Water is the best drink you can have. If it’s a bit boring for your taste, try infused water. Add fruits or herbs to your water to make it more interesting. Aside from being flavorful, they are super hydrating and look good on your table. However, be careful when using citrus fruits. They are highly acidic and can weaken your teeth’s enamel.
Key Takeaway
Summer won’t be complete without snacks. While it’s harmful to your teeth, you can go around this by snacking on healthy foods. Not only are you providing your body with the nutrients it needs, but you’re also making your teeth stronger and healthier. The foods and beverages you consume will significantly impact your overall health, so choose healthier snack options this summer.