How Cavities Really Happen (And What Summer Snacks Have to Do With It)

Summer means more time outside, more fun—and often more snacking. But while you’re soaking up the sun, your teeth might be soaking up sugar and acid, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Let’s take a look at how cavities really form, and what you can do to keep your family’s smiles healthy all summer long.

What Is a Cavity, Anyway?

Cavities (also called dental caries) form when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from food and drinks. As they digest these sugars, the bacteria produce acid that weakens tooth enamel over time. If this cycle continues, small holes—or cavities—start to form.

Once a cavity gets through the enamel, it can move quickly into the softer layers of the tooth, causing pain, sensitivity, and even infection.

Summer Snacks That Sneak Up on You

Most parents know that soda and candy aren’t great for teeth—but some of the worst offenders are foods we don’t usually think of as “sugary”:

• Goldfish crackers & pretzels: These starchy snacks break down into simple sugars and stick to teeth just like candy does.
• Dried fruit: Often labeled as “healthy,” these are extremely sticky and sugary.
• Sports drinks, lemonade, and soda or seltzers: These beverages are both sugary and acidic, creating the perfect environment for enamel erosion.
• Gummy vitamins & fruit snacks: Yes, even the “organic” ones!

Kids tend to graze all day during the summer, which means their teeth are exposed to a near-constant acid attack.

Smart Strategies for Preventing Cavities

The good news? Cavities are almost entirely preventable—and you don’t need to cut out every fun snack to protect your smile.

1. Snack Smarter

Try these smile-friendly summer snack swaps:

• String cheese or yogurt
• Fresh fruit (especially apples and pears)
• Raw veggies with hummus
• Nuts or whole grain crackers
• Popcorn (just be careful with kernels!)

If your kids love crackers or sweets, serve them with a meal instead of as a solo snack—saliva production during meals helps neutralize acids.

2. Keep Water Handy

Encourage water (not juice or sports drinks) throughout the day. Not only does it rinse the mouth, but fluoridated water also helps strengthen enamel between brushings.

3. Brush & Floss Twice a Day

We know bedtime routines can slide in the summer—but brushing and flossing still matter. Aim for:

• Brushing for 2 full minutes, morning and night
• Flossing once a day
• Brushing after sticky treats, when possible

4. Use Fluoride at Home

Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and reverse early signs of decay. For most kids and adults, a fluoride toothpaste is a simple, effective way to add protection.

Want to learn more about fluoride and whether it’s right for your family? We’ve got a full breakdown for you here: Fluoride Facts & FAQs: What Every Family Should Know

A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way

At Harmony Dental Center, we believe in educating and empowering families to make confident choices. Our team is here to support you with personalized guidance, preventive care, and helpful tips all summer long.

Need to get your family’s checkups in before school starts? Let’s get you on the schedule. We’ll help keep those summer smiles strong into fall and beyond.

Link to schedule: https://book.modento.io/c/8b834e5da9524465a00f46f233f1ab95/appointments/patient-details