If you’re going to a barbeque on July 4, you can enjoy the holiday while protecting your teeth.

Below, we’ll tell you which foods and drinks will help strengthen your teeth while you celebrate your freedoms.

Healthy Drink Choices for the 4^th of July

Water

Water is the best choice for your Independence Day drink. Water from the tap in most locations also contains fluoride, which strengthens your tooth enamel.

If you plan to drink a sugary drink or any alcoholic beverages, simply alternate those drinks with a full glass of water. The water will wash away sugar and acid, which can lead to plaque buildup.

Tea

Unsweetened black or green tea are also refreshing choices. They contain natural compounds that fight bacteria growth in your mouth.

Great Food Choices for July 4^th

Many of the foods already offered on a barbecue spread are actually healthy… for your teeth. Here are the best choices:

Whole Wheat Buns and Protein

Use a whole wheat bun with your burger, brat, or hot dog, and save your teeth. Whole grains are better for you than breads and crackers made with white flour. They don’t stick to your gums and teeth like white-flour-based foods. When foods stick to your teeth, the bacteria in your mouth produces more acid, which can lead to tooth decay.

Additionally, meat contains phosphorus, which strengthens the minerals in your enamel. So, while there are definitely other health downsides to eating too much meat, your teeth won’t mind!

Cheese

When you eat cheese, your saliva production is stimulated, which aids in cleaning your teeth and promoting digestion.

Cheese is alkaline, which means it will neutralize any acidic foods you enjoy on the holiday. More than other dairy products, it helps keep your mouth’s pH level in balance. So, go ahead and put a slice on your burger, or eat some cubes from the cheese tray.

Yogurt

A patriotic yogurt parfait may be the best sweet food choice on Independence Day. The yogurt contains calcium to strengthen enamel and bones, including your jaw bone. It also has beneficial bacteria which promote oral health.

Berries

Berries contain antioxidants, which promote healthy gums and mouth tissues. They also have anthocyanins and polyphenols, powerful compounds that can prevent the growth of decay-causing bacteria. Eat them as a snack or add them to your yogurt parfait.

Raw veggies

Firm veggies like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and celery are great for helping clean food particles from your teeth. They all contain trace minerals which promote strong enamel and bone strength.

Celery is especially good, because its strings act like floss, clearing out food bits from between your teeth. Make sure to select several pieces from the crudité platter.

Nuts

These little nutritional powerhouses contain all kinds of beneficial minerals for your mouth. Eat a variety of nuts to get your daily dose of phosphorus. This mineral is essential for healthy enamel.

Pickles and sauerkraut

These fermented foods contain healthy bacteria called probiotics, which can neutralize the bad bacteria in your mouth that cause tooth decay. They also promote good digestion.

Don’t Forget Dental Care

Whether you’re hosting or attending, brush and floss your teeth 30 minutes after your meal for maximum oral health benefits.

If you haven’t had a regular dental checkup in the past six months, remember to schedule one as soon as possible. We’ll make sure your teeth are in good shape and treat problems before they spread.