Summer is a great time to enjoy the sun, swimming, and other outdoor activities. However, it can also bring with it a host of dental problems. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy this summer.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s important to stay hydrated during the hot summer days. Doing so will help avoid dry mouth and keep the saliva levels balanced.
Avoid Foods and Drinks that are High in Sugar and Acid
As the weather heats up, people tend to crave sugary, acidic foods. However, these can lead to tooth decay, so it’s best to limit your consumption of them. Try to eat the following foods daily:
- Dark green, leafy vegetables.
- Whole grains like wheat, barley, and oats.
- Lean proteins like chicken and fish.
- Fresh or canned fruit.
- Mild cheeses such as mozzarella and Swiss.
- Switch to Toothpaste with Fluoride
- Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Practice Good Dental Care Habits
Enjoying the warmer weather with outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming has many benefits, but it’s important to take care of your teeth as well as the rest of your body. Make sure to pack a toothbrush and floss so you can clean your teeth after a fun summer day. If you wear braces, bring orthodontic wax and a protective case along in case your braces irritate from water exposure.
Use Sun Protection
The sun is more intense in the summer than in the winter. The heat and UV rays can cause damage to your teeth. So make sure to use sun protection which involves using sunscreen or wearing hats.
Get Regular Checkups
Summer is a great time to visit your dental team. It’s a great time to come in for a checkup and cleaning.
Wear a Mouthguard
Summer is a great time to take up a new hobby, such as tennis, baseball, football, or even skateboarding. While these activities are often rewarding, they can put your teeth at risk. For example, if you play baseball, you could get a tooth knocked out. If you skateboard, you could suffer a facial injury. So, wearing a mouth guard when playing sports can help prevent dental problems.
Make an appointment with us today at (432) 570-7080 or email us at [email protected] for further questions. Get in touch with our office at 4519 N Garfield St., Suite 16A, Midland, TX 79705.