Protect Your Smile This Summer
From ice-cold drinks and late-night snacks to sunny days by the pool, summer offers a refreshing change of pace. However, all that extra fun can also impact your smile if you are not careful. The good news is that following a few key guidelines can keep your oral health in check all season long. Here are five simple ways to keep your teeth healthy this summer.
5 Easy Ways to Protect Teeth This Summer
1. Be Mindful of What You Sip On
Cold sodas, sweet teas, and lemonade are popular summer staples. However, they are not the most tooth-friendly choices due to their sugar content. Some soft drinks contain as much as 60 grams of sugar; that is equal to 15 sugar packets! Plus, sweet beverages are often acidic, which can erode tooth enamel and fuel cavity-causing bacteria.
Using a straw and rinsing with water afterward can help reduce the effects of sweet summer drinks on your teeth. For the best protection, limit your consumption of sugary beverages altogether and choose healthier options, such as water or unsweetened green tea.
2. Watch for Signs of Tooth Sensitivity
If your first thought when biting into an ice cream cone is “ouch” instead of “delicious,” your teeth might be trying to tell you something. One in eight people experiences tooth sensitivity, which is often caused by enamel wear, gum recession, or even microscopic cracks in the teeth.
Do not wait to seek help if you are experiencing sensitivity. Various treatment options are available depending on the underlying cause. Talk to your dentist to find relief so you can enjoy all your favorite summer treats pain-free.
3. Protect Your Teeth During Outdoor Activities
Each year, an estimated five million teeth are knocked out due to sports-related accidents. Common summer activities, such as backyard games, bike rides, and recreational sports, can all pose a serious risk to your smile without proper protection.
Wearing a mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental injuries. Custom-fit mouthguards from your dental provider offer the ultimate protection for people of all ages and activity levels, not just the pros! Contact our office to learn more!
4. Be Mindful of Swimming Pool Water
Whether you are lap swimming or enjoying pool games with the family, it is nearly impossible to avoid getting water in your mouth. However, many people are unaware that pool water can impact their oral health. Chlorine keeps pool water clean and germ-free, but it also increases the water’s acidity. When the teeth are frequently exposed to chlorinated water, it can gradually wear down enamel.
Regular swimmers need to be especially mindful to minimize how much chlorinated water their teeth are exposed to. You can help protect your teeth by keeping your mouth closed while swimming and rinsing with fresh water after getting out of the pool.
5. Do Not Skip Your Routine While Traveling
It is easy to slip out of your routine during summer vacations or long weekends, but brushing and flossing should always remain a top priority. Whether you are away for one night or several weeks, always pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. If you wear a retainer or nightguard, be sure to bring those as well.
Staying consistent with your oral care routine while traveling helps prevent dental issues from arising when away from home. After all, your oral care routine does not get a vacation!
Make Your Smile a Priority This Summer
By following our tooth-healthy tips, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer with a bright, healthy smile. If you have questions about your oral health or need to schedule a summer checkup, contact our office. Our team is here to help you keep your smile sparkling all summer long.
