In Tennessee, summer is hot, and there is lots of fun outside, but it can be bad for your teeth. A bright, healthy smile needs extra care when you are sitting by the pool or having a party in your backyard.
These tips will help you enjoy the season without worrying about your teeth, whether you are a local looking for Cosmetic dentistry in Memphis, TN, or you just want to keep them healthy.
Hydration is the most important thing during summer.
Staying hydrated is important for your teeth and general health, even more so when it is really hot outside. Saliva is very important because it cleans your mouth of food particles and stops germs from growing.
Dehydration can make you produce less saliva, which raises your chance of teeth and gum disease. Carry a water bottle that you can use again and again, and drink water all day.
Be mindful of what you are eating.
Barbecuing, picnics, and ice cream treats are all fun things to do in the summer. It is okay to treat yourself once in a while but watch out for sugary snacks and drinks. There are bacteria in your mouth that feed on sugar and make acids that wear away tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Instead of sugary sodas, drink water or iced tea that has not been sweetened. Also, eat less candy and cookies. Fruits like apples and pears are not only refreshing, but they also help your mouth stay healthy by making you salivate.
Stick to the habit of brushing and sledding regularly.
It is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day all year, but it is even more important in the summer. When you brush and floss your teeth every day, you get rid of food bits and plaque buildup, which can house bacteria and cause cavities and gum disease.
You might want to use toothpaste with fluoride because it helps build tooth enamel and keeps cavities away. After a sweet treat, even a quick brush is better than nothing if you are short on time.
Pack a travel-sized dental care kit.
To keep your teeth healthy while you are on the go this summer, you need to be ready. Bring a small toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you in your bag or purse. So, after a meal or a sweet snack, you can clean your teeth and improve your breath this way.
Protect your lips from sun damage.
Your lips can get damaged by the sun in the summer, just like your face can. To avoid getting sunburn and keep your lips hydrated, use lip balm with SPF. Cracks and infections are more likely to happen on chapped lips.
Protect your teeth from chlorine.
When you are in a swimming pool, you should take care of your teeth to avoid the damage that chlorine can do. It can dry out your mouth and make it more acidic, which can wear away tooth enamel. After swimming, rinse your mouth with water to get rid of the chlorine.
Be careful when playing sports.
During the summer, people like to be outside and play sports, which can make teeth accidents more likely. If you play contact sports, you should wear a mouthguard to keep your teeth from getting hurt.
Do not forget to visit your dentist regularly!
Checkups and cleanings at the dentist are important for keeping your teeth healthy all year, and summer is no different. In the summer, make an appointment with your dentist to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Any oral problems that are found and treated early on can be avoided from getting worse and costing more in the future.
These easy tips will help you keep your smile healthy and bright all summer. So, stay cool, have fun, and keep your smile bright!
