Valentine's Day is known as the most romantic day of the year when you can gift delicious treats to someone special in your life. Although it may be a common time to indulge in decadent chocolates and candy hearts, it can also put you at a higher risk of developing cavities. If you still want to make it a memorable holiday, there are a few Valentine's Day treats to consider eating to enjoy guilt-free sweets that are just as delicious.

Strawberry Banana Smoothies
A yummy snack you can enjoy any time of the day on Valentine's Day is a strawberry banana smoothie, which will work well with the holiday because of its bright pink color shade. The drink is easy to make and can include protein powder for added nutrition. Consider placing a red and white straw in each smoothie that you serve to your loved one to make it look festive.

Raspberry Yogurt Bites
Instead of loading up on Valentine's Day candy, opt for making homemade raspberry yogurt bites. The treat is easy to make and has simple ingredients. Mix yogurt and fresh fruit before pouring the treat into different heart-shaped silicone molds, which will make them delicious to pop into your mouth when you want to munch on something that tastes similar to candy. Consider using strawberry Greek yogurt, which is low on sugar and won't increase your risk of developing cavities. You can pop the bites in the freezer to solidify the food and make them more decadent when they're ready to eat.

Heart Kabobs
If you're craving a sweet treat, opt for heart-shaped kabobs that are made out of watermelon and cantaloupe. The different colours of the fruit will look fun and playful and can make the fruit look like oversized heart candy, but a healthier version that your teeth will love. Place the hearts on kabab skewers, which will make them fun and easy to serve to your loved one while spending the day together. 

Chocolate Covered Strawberries
If you're craving chocolate, prepare strawberries dipped in dark chocolate for something delicious you can feed to your significant other. The dark chocolate will have a lower sugar content and will taste sweet when paired with the fruit. Drizzle on some white chocolate to add a decorative touch that contributes to the visual appeal of the dessert.

Sugar-free Jello
Sugar-free jello is sweet, fun to eat, and is less of a threat to your teeth than the traditional jello recipe. Sugar-free jello is safer on the gums and teeth but still has a delicious flavor to ensure you can continue to eat a traditional Valentine's Day treat. Consider cutting out the jello with a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make the bite-sized treats decorative. You can serve each jello bite in a cupcake liner.

Foods to Avoid
When celebrating Valentine's Day, avoid sugary or acidic foods that can wear down your enamel and lead to tooth decay, which will require visiting the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa for treatment. Opt for natural sweeteners when making homemade goods and cut out juice or soda from your diet. Instead, choose carbonated water that has natural sugar like stevia. Other foods that can lead to tooth decay include sugary breakfast cereals, sauces, syrups, canned fruit, cereal bars, and flavored milks. Many gluten-free food products also have a higher sugar content and can break down the enamel quicker than other food options.

If you happen to eat a small amount of sugar on Valentine's Day, consider brushing your teeth right after or using mouthwash to prevent the sugar from sitting too long. You can also chew sugar-free gum when you're on the go, which will allow your mouth to produce enough saliva to wash away food particles to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Saliva is also effective in neutralizing plaque acids, which is proven to repair early tooth decay and damage.

Eat tooth-friendly treats that are safer for your teeth this Valentine’s Day. Consider making a charcuterie board that consists of cheese, nuts, and yogurt for something romantic but healthy. Foods that are rich in calcium and phosphorus can even repair the enamel on your teeth for better protection. Show your teeth some love by visiting us at the Upper Hunt Dental Centre in Ottawa for a dental checkup. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.