Summer 2019

BBQ tips for healthy smiles

Backyard BBQs are a chance to unwind and enjoy the warm weather with family and friends. While you’re indulging in summer fun, don’t let the season do a number on your teeth. These tips will keep you smiling during your next BBQ.

• BBQ Sauce
  Consider a dry rub instead of BBQ sauce. The sauce is really yummy, but also often contains high fructose corn syrup and other sticky sugars that can cling to teeth and contribute to tooth decay.
• Side Dishes
  Salad dressings, cold pastas and desserts may contain high levels of sugar. Swish with water after a meal to remove food particles, eat salad with crunchy lettuce to keep unwanted remnants from sticking to teeth and try a new recipe like the one in this issue for watermelon, feta and mint salad.
• Toothpicks
  A nice juicy steak or piece of chicken from the grill can make your mouth water, but when the meal’s done, chances are you’ll still have some tiny pieces stuck between your teeth. Instead of reaching for a toothpick, choose floss, which is softer and more effective. Toothpicks can damage your gums, and some people have experienced serious injuries from swallowing them.
• Ice Cubes
  Chewing ice can cause cracked teeth and damaged enamel. To get the same refreshing effect without a possible tooth emergency, let the ice melt in your mouth or chill your drinks in the fridge before serving them.
• Alcoholic Beverages
  The clink of beer bottles is a cheery sound at backyard get-togethers, but too many alcoholic drinks can hurt your teeth. With large amounts of sugar, some alcohols can lead to tooth decay. Alcohol also causes dehydration, which decreases saliva and prevents bacteria from being washed away. Alternate adult beverages with water to help prevent tooth decay (and possibly a headache the next morning).

Mouth-friendly recipe: Watermelon, feta and mint salad

Watermelon is a summertime staple, but did you know it’s good for your teeth, too? The high water content found in watermelon encourages saliva production that helps wash away food stuck on teeth, and its rich amounts of vitamin C can help strengthen gum tissues and prevent certain infections. Mix up this refreshing watermelon recipe for sunny-day picnics.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed watermelon
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¼ cup chopped fresh mint
• ½ tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: Carefully toss all the ingredients together in a large bowl. Enjoy!

Get more protect my smile tips at DeltaDental.com.

Questions? We’re here to help. Please email the Moda Health Dental Customer Service team at OEBBquestions@modahealth.com to learn more.