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Don’t Let Summer Treats Damage Your Teeth: 6 Dentist-Approved Tips for a Healthy Smile
As the weather heats up, so do our cravings for ice cream, popsicles, lemonade, and BBQ ribs. While summertime is full of fun, it can also sneak in a few habits that aren’t so friendly to your teeth. At Milpitas Dental Group, we’re here to help you enjoy the season without putting your smile at risk.
Whether you’re vacationing in San Jose, Fremont, Alviso, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, or Union City, these dentist-approved tips will keep your teeth strong and healthy all summer long.
🍦 1. Don’t Let Sugary Treats Linger
Did you know? Bacteria in your mouth love sugar just as much as you do. When they feed on sugar, they produce acid that erodes enamel and leads to cavities.
Tip: If you indulge in something sweet, rinse with water afterward and wait 30 minutes before brushing (to avoid brushing softened enamel).
👉 Fact source: American Dental Association (ADA) – ADA on sugar and decay
🏊♀️ 2. Be Careful with Pool Water
Chlorine is acidic, and frequent swimming in pools with high chlorine levels can erode enamel over time — especially in kids.
Tip: Remind kids to keep their mouths closed in the pool and drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and neutralize acid.
🧊 3. Skip Chewing Ice
Craving crunch? Ice may seem harmless, but it can crack fillings and chip teeth.
Did you know? Chewing ice is one of the top causes of cracked molars in the summer, especially after soft drinks.
🍹 4. Watch the Acid in Citrus and Soda
Lemonade, sodas, and citrus fruits are acidic and can wear away enamel.
Tip: Sip through a straw to reduce contact with teeth, and rinse with water after drinking. Choose sparkling water over soda when you can.
😴 5. Pack a Nightguard for Vacation
Many people clench their jaws while flying, driving, or sleeping in unfamiliar places. A nightguard can protect your teeth from grinding damage.
Fun fact: Sleep bruxism (teeth grinding at night) affects an estimated 8–31% of the population, with teens and young adults most commonly affected.
👉 Source: Journal of Clinical Medicine (2021)
🧼 6. Don’t Skip Your Summer Cleaning!
A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing can’t reach. Summer is a great time to get it done — especially before fall routines kick in.
🌟 FAQ: Summer Dental Care
Q: Can summer snacks cause cavities faster?
Yes — especially sticky, sugary foods that cling to your teeth. Rinsing and brushing after eating can reduce your risk.
Q: Should I get a cleaning before vacation?
Definitely! A pre-vacation visit can catch any early issues and leave your teeth looking fresh in photos.
Q: What’s the best on-the-go dental product?
Travel-sized floss picks and mouth rinse are great for beach bags or carry-ons.
😁 Enjoy Summer with a Healthy Smile
Whether you’re in Milpitas or nearby cities like Fremont or San Jose, our team is here to help your family protect their smiles all summer long.
📅 Schedule your dental checkup today and sail into the season with a healthy, confident grin! New patients with PPO insurance may be eligible for a free Sonicare electric toothbrush!
