Summertime in Boulder is a time to get outdoors to go hiking, swimming, biking, and taking in all that Colorado has to offer. It’s also the season to try and stay cool and hydrated. At North Boulder Dental we’re all about encouraging patients to enjoy the summer months, including the many treats that will also help keep your teeth healthy and strong!
We Scream for Ice Cream
The first advertisement for ice cream in America was published in 1777, and it is reported that President George Washington spent about $200 on ice cream during the summer of 1790. That’s a lot of ice cream! But this frozen treat was considered a rare dessert for about 50 years until insulated ice houses were invented. Today, the U.S. produces about 1.6 billion gallons of ice cream!
While ice cream is one of the most popular of desserts, if you eat it too regularly it has the potential to cause dental problems. Because ice cream is full of added sugar, plus can create tooth sensitivity, it can damage and weaken tooth enamel. Any foods with too much added sugar, and consumed too regularly, increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Luckily, staying cool during summer and protecting your teeth is stress-free with healthier icy treats!
Frozen Grapes
This easy and healthy snack is a big hit to keep you cool on the hottest days in Boulder! Choose fresh, juicy grapes from the grocery store or at the Farmer’s Market. Lay grapes out in a single layer on parchment or wax paper on a baking tray or something flat, like a plate. Put the grapes in the freezer until frozen or just chilled for a great, refreshing summertime snack.
Strawberries and Yogurt
A great combination of many different options, try strawberries and yogurt for a delicious alternative to ice cream. Carefully rinse and drain a selection of big, fresh strawberries. Choose your favorite yogurt, preferably one with no added sugar, and dip each strawberry into the yogurt. Use a muffin tray and place each dipped strawberry into the individual molds. Pop into the freezer until frozen and enjoy!
Shift to Sherbets
If you find yourself unexpectedly at the ice cream shop on Pearl Street or anywhere around town, choose sherbet instead of ice cream! There are so many great, refreshing sherbet flavors and these cold treats are tasty but also gentler on your teeth with high water content and fruit. You can count on sherbet to keep you cool without the calories or added sugars.
Fruit Parfaits
Try an exciting and colorful fruit parfait with all the delicious, in-season fruits available! Choose a selection of different fruits that you and your family like. Wash and chop the fruit into small cubes or bite-size pieces. Parfaits are meant to be layered so choose a healthy yogurt option and even nuts if you’d like! Put slices of fruit into a tall glass (so you can see and enjoy the parfait layers) followed by a layer of yogurt and nuts (if using), then another layer of fruit and yogurt until the glass is filled. Enjoy!
We hope you get the most out of summer this year! As you start back-to-school planning, don’t forget to call North Boulder Dental at (303) 447-1042 to schedule you and your family’s cleaning and checkup appointments for the remainder of the year.
