Summer Foods to Enjoy & Avoid for Your Oral Health

As we slide into the last few weeks of Summer, we’re sure you want to make the most of enjoying nature’s bounty and the tasty treats that go so well with sunny days. And did you know there are some seasonal foods that are actually good for your teeth?

“Fresh, crunchy vegetables and fruits have a texture that acts like a tooth brush and stimulates saliva,” says Dr. Elias Fahed about Summer foods that are more than just delicious. And what goes well with a fruit and vegetable board? Cheese, of course! “Dairy products, especially cheese, have calcium and casein, which help remineralize teeth,” Dr. Fahed adds.

Have a garden with fresh herbs? “Fresh herbs can be eaten for fresher breath,” Dr. Fahed says. “This is due to the aromatic essential oils found in them, some of which have anti-microbial properties.”

And don’t forget to stay hydrated! It’s important for so many reasons. ”Always hydrate as much as you can with water to wash away any sugar and acidity from any fruits you eat,” he says, adding that it’s also key to be mindful about how many sugary drinks you consume this season (and yes, those cottage cocktails DO count).

Finally, Dr. Fahed advises you watch what darker fruits and berries you eat (purple plums, cherries, blueberries, etc.) as they can stain teeth. “Try and rinse your mouth with water if you can,” he says. “And other than that, enjoy the last bit of Summer!”