Did you summer snacking starting early due to quarantine? Or maybe your little ones are looking for something new to sink their teeth into. Either way, the choices of what you eat can have a positive impact on your oral health, smile, and breath. To help you celebrate summer with fresh foods that the whole family will love, we came up with our favorite fresh finds for a healthy mouth.

Try These Healthy Summer Snacks

Cool Off with Banana Ice Cream

So, this may be the simplest summer treat that kids love. And busy parents love this because they can start preparing the recipe in the evening after the kids are asleep, and it’s almost ready the next day.

Slice your ripe bananas then put them in the freezer in a baggie or tupperware container. The next day when the kids are hot from running around pop the bananas in the blender. Blend until smooth and serve.

Oral Benefits: Bananas are high in potassium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C. These strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Magnesium helps harden enamel, as well.

Zucchini Bites

Kids love this recipe, and it’s easy for parents to make as a midday snack or side for dinner. Preheat your oven to 425, then wash and thinly slice your zucchini–usually one or two is enough for a family of four– Place each slice on a baking sheet that has been prepped with olive oil. Then, sprinkle parmesan, salt, and pepper on your slices (the kids can join in on this step). Bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and crispy.

Oral and Health Benefits: Zucchini is rich in vitamins, minerals (including potassium), and fiber. Parmesan cheese contains phosphate and calcium to strengthen teeth. It also helps balance your mouth’s pH, which reduces acid and improves how well your saliva can clean your mouth.

Yogurt in a Cucumber Blanket

Cucumber is an excellent and refreshing summer snack. When paired with yogurt, this fresh summer fruit makes a tasty snack that you and the kids will enjoy.

Use a veggie peeler or a knife and slice your cucumber long-ways. Then, choose what you want to go along with your unsweetened Greek yogurt–many people like deli meat, chunks of cheddar, and fresh dill. Now, spread an even layer of yogurt onto the cucumber slices and add your extras. Then start on one end and roll them up. You may want to secure them with a toothpick.

Oral and Health Benefits: Yogurt without added sugar helps you maintain a strong smile because it contains casein and calcium. Cucumber is hydrating and full of fiber. This helps scrub your teeth and wash away bacteria.

We Hope You Have a Wonderful, Healthy, and Happy Summer!

Remember when shopping for summer snacks for the little ones, avoid those sticky and chewy snacks along with snacks and drinks high in sugars. We hope that your summer is filled with fresh and fun memories.

We miss your smile. If your family is due for your yearly checkups, we’re open and ready to make an appointment for you. We’re open and operating with COVID-19 precautions in place to keep everyone that comes through our door healthy and safe.

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