Oral Health Tips for Summer

Summer is the perfect time of year to enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities. However, there are some activities that can take a toll on your oral health. So you need to take care of your oral health in all possible ways.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to maintaining a healthy smile. It’s especially important to drink plenty of water when the weather gets hot. Not only does staying hydrated help keep your body healthy, but it also keeps your mouth healthy. It’s always important to maintain great oral hygiene habits year-round, but it’s especially important to do so in the summer. During the warmer months, we spend more time outdoors, which increases our exposure to harmful UV rays. This exposure can cause a condition called xerostomia, or dry mouth, which affects up to 25 percent of adults. A dry mouth can lead to cavities and gum disease.

In addition to drinking plenty of water, try adding water-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet. Examples include watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, cucumbers, lettuce, and celery.

Wear a Mouth Guard When Playing Sports

During the summer, you may play sports such as soccer, baseball, and softball. While playing these sports, it’s important to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth from oral injuries. A mouth guard is a protective, plastic appliance that fits over your teeth. Mouth guards prevent injuries to your lips, tongue, face, and jaw.

If you or your child play sports, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard.

Clean Your Teeth Regularly

Be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss daily. This will help keep your teeth clean, prevent cavities, and get rid of any food debris.

You don’t have to brush your teeth immediately after eating, but make sure you brush and floss within 30 minutes of eating. If you can’t brush or floss after eating, chew a piece of sugarless gum to help clean your teeth.

Be sure to drink lots of water. This will help wash away debris and bacteria and keep your mouth hydrated.

Avoid Sugary Drinks and Foods

When the weather is nice, it’s tempting to drink beverages that are full of sugar. Drinks like soda and juice are loaded with sugar and can really damage your teeth. If you need something to drink, opt for water. Water helps to clean your mouth and wash away any leftover food particles and bacteria that can harm your smile.

Regular Dental Checkup

A dental cleaning will remove plaque and tartar buildup so that your smile will sparkle. In addition, a dental exam will allow your dentist to monitor your oral health, especially since your risk for cavities can increase with summer.

Mt. Pleasant Family Dental, located in Mt Pleasant, TX, is equipped with the best dentists and modern amenities that enable the best dental care facilities for the patients. Call us at (903) 345-6065 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about preventive treatments provided at the dental practice.