While summer is the season for relaxation, being too leisurely about dental care can result in a variety of oral health problems, especially for kids who are still developing. That’s why parents must steer their little ones away from sweet summer treats known to contribute to cavities and gum disease. If you’re looking for something tasty to help your child cool down in the heat, here are three tasty and healthy options for teeth.

3 Tooth-Friendly Summer Treats That Kids Will Love

1. Yogurt Pops

To craft this treat, combine two cups of vanilla Greek yogurt, two tablespoons of honey or agave nectar, and two cups of your kid’s favorite fruits, such as sliced strawberries, pureed bananas, or blueberries. Pour the mix into a popsicle mold and freeze it for a few hours until solid.

In addition to being low in sugar, the yogurt in these pops contains a healthy dose of calcium to help build strong teeth. Fruit also offers a variety of nutrients beneficial for dental care, such as vitamin C and fiber.

2. Homemade Ice Cream

To start, combine one cup of milk, 1.5 tablespoons of Stevia or another natural sweetener, and a half-teaspoon of vanilla in a quart-size freezer bag. Next, mix three cups of ice in a gallon size bag along with a one-third cup of coarse salt.

Place the smaller bag inside the bag of ice, seal it up, and wrap it in a towel to block out the cold. Then shake vigorously for about five minutes until the liquid mixture hardens—kids will enjoy helping with this part. Let the bags sit for a few minutes, then scoop out the finished product.

Besides offering tooth-strengthening minerals, the milk in the ice cream will give your child a dose of proteins and caseins, two compounds that help protect enamel.  If your little one wants to add something extra to the treat, opt for nuts instead of sprinkles. Chewing on nuts helps promote saliva production, which, in turn, neutralizes acids in the mouth.

3. Frozen Fruit

If you’re short on time, you can chill many fruits in the freezer for a smile-friendly snack. Frozen grapes, for instance, contain compounds known as flavonoids, which are shown to help prevent tooth decay. If you want a creamy texture similar to ice cream, frozen bananas will do the trick. Unlike other fruits, bananas are considerably low in acids, making them less harmful to enamel.

With school out of session, summer is also a perfect time for kids to check up on their oral health. That’s why Pediatric Dental Group makes it easy for parents to schedule oral exams for their children. Serving Honolulu, HI, since 1966, this pediatric dentist provides teeth cleanings in a fun and stress-free fashion. To learn more about this practice and the comprehensive dental care services they offer, visit their website. For appointments, call (808) 593-8828.