Summer is right around the corner! Most people like to spend the sunny season relaxing, decompressing, and bonding with family, which means all regular routines get thrown out the window pretty quickly.
It’s normal for people to get lost in all the fun, but try not to let that get in the way of your oral hygiene—it’s crucial to your dental health. Here are five summer oral health tips to help you maintain a strong, healthy smile you won’t stop showing off.
Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Regimen
When the kids are out of school, and you have a myriad of summer activities planned for the whole family, it’s easy to fall out of routine. But, for the sake of your dental health, you must adapt to your new schedule and find a way to keep up with your oral hygiene. Establish a routine that works and stick to it—remember, you must brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
Avoid Sugary Drinks
What better way to cool down on a hot, summer day than with a refreshing glass of cold water? It can be tempting to reach for a juice, soda, lemonade, or sports drink, but they contain unhealthy amounts of sugar which can lead to dental decay and enamel erosion. Protect your teeth by limiting the amount of sugar you drink.
Use a Straw
If you do decide to indulge in a sweet or acidic drink, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. It can help prevent staining, tooth decay, and cavities.
Limit Sweet Treats
Ice cream, snow cones, and popsicles are traditional summer treats, but they’re loaded with sugar and are bad news for your teeth. Overconsumption of sugar can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and increased risk of tooth sensitivity and gum disease. If you must indulge, opt for sugar-free alternatives or try munching on healthy snacks like fruit and vegetables.
Stay Hydrated
Not only will frequently drinking water keep you hydrated and healthy, but it can also help wash away plaque-causing bacteria and sugars, which can improve your breath. If possible, choose to drink fluoridated tap water—it helps strengthen your enamel to make your teeth more resistant to dental decay.
Now that you’ve learned a few oral health tips to keep your teeth in their best shape possible, you’re ready to beat the heat, stay healthy, and enjoy your summer knowing your smile will be looking good all season long.
About the Practice
Plush Dentistry’s top priority is quality and precision, and our dental office and services reflect that. Dr. Faizan Ali and Dr. Naira T. Kraipak understand there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach, which is why they provide personalized care so the entire family can go home with the best smiles possible. If you want to make sure your family has summer-ready smiles, Dr. Ali and Dr. Kraipak can be contacted via their website or by phone at (469) 850-0786.