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Cool Summer Treats to Keep Kids Cavity-Free

Remember that old adage, ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’? Well today, thanks to modern science, we recognize the wisdom of this ancient advice and know that apples contribute to proper dental hygiene. In addition to keeping your body healthy with a variety of vitamins and minerals, apples are also a great summer treat for kids. Apples are high in fiber, which means that they keep the saliva in your mouth flowing and thus reduce the chance of cavities. A crisp, cold apple can be just what the ‘dentist’ ordered on a hot summer day to inhibit cavity formation – and the perfect alternative to sugary sweets such as ice cream, ice pops, or gelatin.

Another tasty summer treat is the tropical banana. Among those quintessential summer stand-bys, bananas and summer just go together. If you’ve ever seen a banana tree, you’ll agree that those long, floppy leaves just seem to fit in perfectly in the summer landscape, next to a few palm and coconut trees. If your kids are like most, though, they’re not dreaming of escaping to an exotic isle – they want a sweet snack fast. But before you give in to everyone screaming for ice cream, remember that a banana split – with just enough ice cream to be a wicked indulgence – is actually the best of both worlds. Kids can get their ice cream fix, while the fiber in their mostly banana split keeps the saliva flowing and keeps the cavities from forming. What a great way to be hailed as ‘world’s greatest mom (or dad!)’ and still sneak them a healthy snack.

So remember, when it comes to summertime snacks for kids, you can still fight cavities while treating them to something delicious. High fiber foods keep the saliva flowing in the mouth and thus inhibit cavity formation. Fruits, whether served fresh and cold or dried, are an excellent source of fiber. Make dried fruits such as figs, raisins, and dates available in a dried fruit platter on the dinner table, or be creative and freeze some fresh figs for any icy cold treat that is guaranteed to please. Remember, too, that you can promote proper dental hygiene by having kids brush after sugary snacks or at least twice a day. Keep cavities from forming all summer long with regular dental cleanings plus fruits, vegetables, and high fiber foods.

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