National Smile Month

Between 12 May and 12 June 2025, the Oral Health Foundation will raise awareness of important oral health issues.

Join the nation's biggest oral health campaign and help bring a smile to millions of people.

This year the theme for National Smile Month is Feed Your Smile.

Snack smart: healthy alternatives to sugary treats

Snacking is part of daily life, but the wrong choices can harm your teeth.

Many snacks are loaded with sugar, which feeds bacteria, produces acids, and leads to decay.

The good news is there are plenty of delicious, tooth-friendly alternatives that satisfy cravings without putting your smile at risk.

Why smart snacking matters

Every time you eat, your teeth are exposed to acids that can weaken enamel. Sugary snacks make this worse by feeding bacteria that produce even more acid.

Choosing the right snacks helps:

Reduce the risk of decay and cavities

Strengthen enamel with essential nutrients

Keep your breath fresh and gums healthy

Healthy snack swaps for a brighter smile

Instead of biscuits and cakes, try nuts and seeds

These are low in sugar and packed with tooth-friendly minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Instead of chewy sweets, try fresh berries

These are naturally sweet, high in fibre, and much gentler on your teeth

Swap fizzy drinks for water or milk

Water washes away acids, and milk strengthens teeth with calcium.

Instead of crisps, have crunchy vegetables

Stimulate saliva flow and naturally clean teeth, while still getting a satisfying crunch.

Swap chocolate for apple slices and nut butter

Satisfy your sweet cravings with something lower in sugar.

Instead of ice cream, have Greek yoghurt and honey

It is packed with calcium and probiotics for gut health.

Instead of pastries, have cheese cubes

Cheese helps neutralise acid and strengthen enamel.

Tooth-friendly snacking tips

Pair snacks with water

Helps rinse away food particles and acids.

Whole foods like carrots, apples and bananas

Go for whole foods

Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy are better for teeth than processed snacks.

A hand picking crisps with a red cross alongside

Limit grazing

Frequent snacking keeps teeth exposed to acids for longer. Try to eat at set times.

Chew sugar-free gum

Helps produce saliva to neutralise acids and clean teeth between meals.

Read labels

Watch out for hidden sugars in "healthy" snacks like granola bars and flavoured yoghurts.

The bottom line

Snacking doesn’t have to be bad for your teeth! With the right choices, you can enjoy tasty, satisfying snacks while keeping your smile strong and healthy.

Want to know more about the best foods for your teeth? Check out our Best Foods for a Brighter, Stronger Smile guide!

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