It’s summer, and many of us are looking forward to embracing those classic seasonal staples. When you’re planning your summer menu, take a moment to consider how your diet affects your teeth and gums. If you’re hoping to eat well and keep your smile in check, here are five tooth-friendly foods to include in your summer diet:

1. Strawberries: strawberries are not just packed with vitamin C, which is good for boosting your immunity. They’re also natural stain removers. The rough skin of the strawberry removes surface stains, giving your smile a gorgeous healthy glow.
2. Raw vegetables: if you’re looking for healthy picnic ideas, look no further than some chopped carrots, cucumber sticks and celery batons. Raw vegetables have high water content, which is good for cleansing the mouth, and when you chew, this also stimulates the gums.
3. Salad leaves: salad leaves contain water and they’re also rich in fibre, vitamins and nutrients. If you’re eating acidic foods, foods that have high water content can help to neutralise acids.
4. Cheese: cheese is a staple when it comes to preparing vegetarian barbeque dishes and it can also be added to cold pasta dishes and salads. A cheeseboard is also a popular alternative to sweet desserts. Cheese is a good source of calcium, and it also has high pH value. It’s a great idea to combine wine with cheese if you’re enjoying a drink in the evening, as this will help to neutralise acids in the mouth.
5. Natural yoghurt: are you looking for a healthier alternative to summer puddings like ice cream, meringues and cheesecake? If so, consider filling a bowl full of natural yoghurt and then adding a spoonful of honey or a sprinkling of raspberries, blueberries and strawberries.