Summer brings routine-free days, later bedtimes, and more opportunities for snacks throughout the day. Popsicles at the pool. Juice boxes on the go. Snacks (and more snacks) during a road trip. Of course, summer itself isn’t the problem, but changes in structure and predictability can increase how frequently children’s teeth are exposed to sugar and acid throughout the day.
To keep your family’s oral health top-of-mind this season, here are five summer dental tips for kids.
1. It’s not just what kids eat. It’s how often they snack.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the frequency of sugar exposure and between-meal snacking are both important factors in cavity development. Additionally, research from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) reveals that children who have sugar-containing snacks or beverages between meals more than three times per day are at a higher risk for dental issues.
Each time children consume high-sugar food and drinks, bacteria in their mouths produce acid. Although saliva helps to neutralize acids and protect their teeth, frequent snacking gives the mouth less time to recover between exposures. Even foods parents may consider healthier choices, like dried fruit or crackers, can contribute to cavity risk when eaten continuously throughout the day.
2. Build a better summer snack routine.
To minimize the chance of dental issues, create designated snack times based on your plans for the day. Knowing that sugary treats will be consumed no matter what, keep some smile-friendly summer snacks on hand, such as:
- Cheese and whole-grain crackers
- Fresh fruit
- Plain yogurt and granola
- Apple slices with nut butter
- Fresh vegetables and hummus
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Mixed nuts
To beat the heat, always offer water with snacks too! Not only does it support saliva production and overall oral health, but it also helps to rinse away food particles. Pack refillable bottles for easy access.
3. Serve popsicles strategically.
Because children often eat popsicles slowly, their teeth are exposed to sugar for longer. In addition to added sugar, sour or citrus-flavored treats may be acidic, which can further damage enamel.
Always look for options with less added sugar when possible. Better yet, make homemade popsicles with blended whole fruit and plain yogurt! You can also serve sweet treats with or shortly after a meal rather than something children repeatedly consume throughout the day. Finally, encourage children to drink water afterwards to help wash away the sugar and acid.
4. Don’t forget that beverages matter too.
It’s common for children to drink more sweetened beverages during the summer months — things like juice, sports drinks, lemonade, sweet tea, and soda. Remember that unlimited sipping throughout the day isn’t ideal for dental health. Instead, save these options for special occasions, and make sure that water is the primary beverage that children reach for throughout the day. Fluoridated water provides additional benefits by helping to prevent cavities.
5. Don’t let summer schedules disrupt brushing and flossing.
Thanks to vacations, summer camps, and sleepovers — not to mention slower mornings and later bedtimes — oral hygiene routines often become inconsistent. Children should continue brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. They should also floss and use mouthwash once daily, ideally before bedtime.
Wishing you and your family a summer filled with smiles and sunshine!
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your dental care needs.
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today. Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like your family’s dental routine, dental anxiety, and more.