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Nothing says summer quite like a good old braai with family and friends. The smoky smell of the fire, juicy wors and chops on the grid, pap and chakalaka on the side, and an ice-cold drink in hand, it’s more than just food, it’s tradition. But while braais bring people together, it’s easy to forget about your teeth in the middle of all the fun.

Many of the foods and drinks enjoyed at a braai can take a toll on your oral health if you’re not mindful of them. The good news? You don’t have to miss out, as just a few simple steps can help you protect your smile while enjoying every moment of braai season.

Sticky Sauces

Braai sauces, marinades, and chutneys are often loaded with sugar. These sugars stick to your teeth and feed bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities.

Red Meat and Braai Favourites

While protein is good for you, meat fibres often get stuck between teeth. If not cleaned out, these can lead to plaque build-up and bad breath. On the positive side, chewing meat stimulates saliva, which helps neutralise acids and wash away some bacteria, so be sure to balance it out with proper cleaning afterwards.

Alcoholic Drinks

Beer, ciders, and cocktails are high in sugar and acid content. They also dry out your mouth, reducing saliva, which normally protects against tooth decay.

Sweet Treats

Desserts such as malva pudding, ice cream, or chocolate are a sweet ending to a braai, but consuming them too often can be tough on your enamel.

Tips to Keep Your Smile Strong

Rinse with Water
After enjoying sauces, meat, or drinks, rinse your mouth with plain water. This helps wash away sugars and acids before they have a chance to stick around too long.

Balance with Crunchy Veggies
Add some crunch to the braai table with carrots, cucumbers, or green peppers. These veggies don’t just freshen up your plate; they also act like a natural toothbrush, helping clean your teeth while you chew and giving your meal a healthier balance.

Limit Sugary Drinks
If you’re having alcohol, try alternating with water or sugar-free options. Sparkling water with lemon is refreshing and doesn’t harm your teeth.

Don’t Forget to Floss
After a braai, flossing is your best friend. It clears out those stubborn meat fibres and keeps your gums healthy.

Brush—But Not Too Soon
It may be tempting to brush right after eating, but wait at least 30 minutes if you’ve had acidic foods or drinks. Brushing too soon can damage softened enamel.

Choose Smarter Sauces
Opt for low-sugar or homemade marinades where you can control the ingredients. Lemon juice, garlic, and herbs add flavour without loading on sugar.

Keep Portion Sizes Sensible
Overindulging not only affects your waistline but also your teeth. Moderation is key to enjoying braai season while protecting your oral health.

Final Thoughts

Healthy teeth do more than brighten your smile—they play a big role in protecting your overall health as well. Gum disease and decay can lead to painful infections and even affect other parts of the body if ignored. The good news is you don’t have to skip your braai favourites to stay healthy; instead, it’s all about balance.

By rinsing with water, adding vegetables to your plate, flossing after meals, and monitoring your sugar intake, you can enjoy the best of braai season without compromising your oral health. For added peace of mind, Affinity Dental offers affordable dental plans that include regular check-ups and access to a wide network of skilled dentists, helping you maintain a strong smile long after the braai coals have cooled.