Choose Tooth-Friendly Snacks

It’s easy to reach for chips, caramel popcorn, and red licorice at a holiday gathering, but these snacks can stick to your teeth and lead to cavities. Instead, look for crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, celery, or carrots. Cheese cubes, nuts, and whole-grain crackers are also tasty options that are much gentler on your enamel.

Stay Hydrated with Water

Iced tea, lemonade, and sodas are common 4th of July beverages—but they’re also packed with sugar and acids that weaken tooth enamel. Water is not only the best choice for hydration in the summer heat, but it also helps rinse away food debris and bacteria. If you do indulge in a sugary drink, sip through a straw and rinse with water afterward.

Avoid Using Teeth as Tools

When you’re outside enjoying the festivities, you might not have scissors or a bottle opener nearby. Still, resist the urge to use your teeth to open packages or twist off caps. Doing so can crack or chip your teeth and even damage dental work. Keep tools on hand to protect your smile.

Practice Smart Grilling Habits

Corn on the cob, grilled meats, and crunchy snacks can be delicious—but also tricky for your teeth. Try cutting corn off the cob and slicing meat off the bone to avoid unexpected chips or sore gums. Be extra careful if you have dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or braces.

Brush and Floss After the Fireworks

After a day full of fun (and food), don’t forget to brush and floss before bed. Use fluoride toothpaste and take your time—two full minutes of brushing followed by thorough flossing will help remove the day’s buildup of sugar and plaque. For extra freshness, use a mouthwash to finish your oral hygiene routine.

Travel With a Smile Kit

If you’ll be spending the day at the beach or a park, pack a small dental travel kit. Include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss picks, and sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum helps increase saliva flow, which naturally cleans and protects your teeth between meals.

Keep Up with Regular Dental Visits

After the holiday fun wraps up, it’s a great time to schedule a dental checkup. Preventive teeth cleanings can catch small problems before they become bigger issues—and keep your smile bright all summer long.