Dental tips for summertime fun

It's summertime! The time for fun in the sun, swimming in the lake, hiking those beautiful Montana Mountains. It's time for barbecues and picnics. It is also the time for iced lattes and ice cream, fair food and cotton candy. It's time for soda and.........WAIT!!!!!

With all this summer fun, which we should all enjoy, let's remember one important thing: Leave the sugar behind!

National Public Radio recently published a great article titled "Study: Sugar Rules the World and Ruins Teeth too." The article points out the influence Big Sugar companies have on societies and research entities globally. However, unlike the global initiative to fight tobacco use, there is no global effort to fight sugar consumption. After reading that article I felt frustrated, just like how I feel about the big tobacco companies.

On a daily basis, I see the damage sugar and acidic beverages have on our community. Many people suffer from tooth decay that affects their ability to eat, speak and even look younger. Tooth decay is destructive, progressive and expensive to fix. When it is fixed, it isn't guaranteed to last forever because once the bacteria live in the sugar filled, acidic mouth, they flourish and are harder to remove if hygiene isn't impeccable. Diets that remain high in sugar or carbohydrates will ultimately cause the demise of any dental work done.

So next time you think about getting that soda, latte, cookie or ice cream, remember this beautiful quote from my favorite cooking book Good Food, Great Medicine by Miles Hassell MD:

"We strongly recommend that things like cookies, or any dessert made with refined sugar and/or flour, should be an occasional treat or something to make for a special dinner or party. Cookie jars don't belong in the home of responsible adults. But if you do make cookies now and then, don't lose sight of their mission, which is to brighten the eyes and delight the soul."

We don't need sugar every day, our souls can be delighted by the beauty that surrounds us. Do bring your water bottle and if you indulge in that trail mix with those scrumptious chocolate chips and M&Ms, just remember to brush your teeth and floss. Get out and enjoy Montana!