Fun In The Sun: Dental Safety Tips For The Summer

Summer is officially here! While you are prepping for days spent by the pool, bike rides, and summer getaways, don’t forget that your oral health doesn’t take a break during the summer months. And really, the last thing anyone wants to deal with is a dental problem when they could be beachside, right? 

As nice as the seasonal change and warm weather are on our moods and activities, they can also lead to problems with your teeth. It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues and prevent them before they even begin. That way, you can keep livin’ that summertime life without any concern for a surprise visit to the dentist. 

Here are our top five tips to help keep your mouth healthy and safe during the summer months.

1. Keep Your Lips ProtectedProtecting your lips is a first-line defense against dental issues. You use sunscreen on your skin to protect it from the damaging rays of the sun, and your lips are no different. In fact, lips have even thinner layers of skin, making them extra prone to sun damage. So the next time you’re applying sunscreen, consider also using a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.
2. Guard Against Sports InjuriesSports camps, neighborhood games, and more frequent get-togethers are all a sign that summer is here. But with many summer sporting activities comes the increased risk of injury. Wear a mouthguard whenever you are engaging in recreational activities to help reduce the risk of damaging your teeth. Don’t have a mouthguard? We can help! Schedule an appointment with us for a custom mouthguard fitting.
3. Drink Plenty of WaterCases of dehydration always rise during the hot, summer months. While it’s good advice to stay hydrated for your overall health, it’s also great for your teeth. When you are dehydrated, your mouth becomes dry, creating a breeding ground for bacteria to grow. Drinking plenty of water will keep your entire system hydrated and healthy, and will help produce saliva that can help wash away germs and bacteria.
4. Limit Sugary SweetsIce cream and other ice-cold treats go hand-in-hand with summertime. Reaching for a cold, refreshing ice cream sandwich just feels right. While having a sweet treat every once in a while is completely fine, having them frequently can damage your teeth. If you have sensitive teeth, the ice-cold temperatures can cause significant pain, while the high sugar levels in these treats can cause tooth decay and cavities to form. Try to add some healthier alternatives to help fix your sweet cravings like fresh fruits or yogurt, and consider brushing your teeth immediately after enjoying.
5. And Finally… HAVE FUN! Summertime is the time to be outside, make lasting memories, and, most importantly, to have fun! Don’t let one of those memories be a trip to the dentist (unless it’s your regular bi-annual checkup!) Make sure you schedule regular cleanings with us to help keep your teeth fresh and healthy, while also taking the necessary steps to prevent dental concerns in your day-to-day life.