Warmer weather means firing up the grill – and enjoying ribs, burgers, BBQ chicken, and all the sides that come with them. But before you reach for that sweet sauce or coleslaw, here’s a quick heads up.
Many BBQ favorites are loaded with hidden sugars and acids that can harm your teeth.
Watch out for:
- BBQ sauce and ketchup (sugar + acid)
- Sweet baked beans (high sugar content)
- Coleslaw and macaroni salad (often made with sugar)
- Corn on the cob (starchy and can get stuck between teeth)
- Sweet teas, sodas, and lemonade
How to protect your smile:
- Eat your meal, don’t graze all day. Frequent snacking keeps acid attacking your enamel.
- Drink plenty of water – especially after something sweet or sticky.
- Wait 30 minutes after eating before brushing (acid softens enamel).
- Keep floss picks handy for corn and ribs.
Enjoy the barbecue season – just give your teeth a little TLC afterward.