Summer eating: what to eat to keep a healthy smile all summer long?
NUTRITION

Summer eating: what to eat to keep a healthy smile all summer long?

Published on July 23, 2025

Summer is a time for joy, relaxation, and… many small culinary pleasures. Aperitifs on the terrace, sweet fruits, refreshing drinks… These moments are wonderful for the soul, but they can also pose a challenge for your oral health.

At The Smilist, we believe it's possible to savour the summer without compromising your smile. In this article, discover the foods to favour to protect your teeth and those to limit to avoid enamel erosion or the development of cavities. And of course, we're sharing a few gentle rituals to complement your oral-care routine!

The best foods for healthy teeth in summer

1. Water-rich fruits: to hydrate and neutralise acidity

Watermelon, melon, cucumber… These water-packed foods stimulate saliva production, a natural mechanism that neutralises the acids responsible for cavities.
-> Bonus: saliva naturally contains enzymes that help repair enamel.

2. Dairy products: to naturally strengthen enamel

Cheeses and plain unsweetened yoghurts are rich in calcium and phosphates, two minerals essential for enamel mineralisation. They fit easily into a healthy breakfast or snack.

3. Crunchy raw vegetables: to cleanse gently

Carrots, celery, and raw peppers have a fibrous texture that acts like a natural mini-brush. Perfect as a snack or starter, they dislodge food debris whilst massaging the gums.

4. Nuts: satiety and minerals with no added sugar

Walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts are rich in magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. They reduce sugar cravings and don't stick to teeth. A healthy and delicious ally.

5. Water and sugar-free herbal teas: for a healthy, fresh mouth

Drinking water regularly helps remove food residue and maintain good hydration of the oral mucosa.

Need a natural boost of freshness between appointments or on the go? Discover our The Smilist Purifying Mouth Spray, alcohol-free, enriched with probiotics for healthy breath and respected oral balance!

Foods and drinks to limit (without banning them entirely!)

1. Fizzy drinks and sugary cocktails: the sugar + acidity combo

Sugary drinks are acidifying and demineralising. Sugar feeds the bacteria responsible for cavities, and acidity attacks enamel.

-> Tip: rinse your mouth with water afterwards, then stimulate saliva with a sugar-free chewing gum!

2. Commercial ice creams: sweet pleasure… but sticky

High in added sugars, they cling to tooth surfaces and prolong acid exposure. Go for homemade ice creams made with simple ingredients instead!

3. Dried fruit: a deceptively good idea

Though energising and high in fibre, raisins, figs, and dates have a sticky texture that encourages plaque formation. Consume in moderation.

-> Tip: To prevent dental plaque build-up, we also recommend the The Smilist Anti-Plaque Whitening Micro-Essence !

4. Crisps, crackers, and aperitif biscuits

These foods turn into a sticky paste on contact with saliva and easily lodge between teeth, often without you noticing.

The right habits to keep a radiant smile all summer long

Alongside a balanced diet, adopt a gentle but consistent routine:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day, with an ultra-soft The Smilist toothbrush with 10,000 bristles and a gentle toothpaste.
    -> Our toothpastes fluoride-free, Made in France, and created by a dentist, strengthen enamel and respect the balance of the oral microbiome.
  • Use dental floss or interdental brushes every evening to clean areas the brush can't reach.
  • Stay hydrated regularly, especially after a meal or a sugary drink.

See your dentist before or after summer, to get ahead of any potential imbalances or sensitivities.

In summary

Summer can be a wonderful time to take care of yourself… and your smile. By choosing the right foods, adopting a gentle hygiene routine, and incorporating healthy products into your daily routine, you can preserve the brightness and health of your teeth whilst enjoying every moment!

At The Smilist, we support you with a gentle, expert, and natural approach to oral care.

To everyone, have a wonderful summer — and above all, keep on smiling, with complete confidence.

Christiane

Dentist & Co-founder of The Smilist