Oral health care is important at all times of the year. In this case, summer is no exception, because taking a vacation from oral care is definitely not a good decision.
As the warm summer months approach, it is necessary to pay special attention to oral health. A combination of increased outdoor activities, changes in eating habits, and exposure to the elements can create unique challenges for maintaining a healthy smile, however, with a few simple tips and precautions, you can enjoy the summer season while keeping your oral health in top shape. In this article, we will discuss some valuable tips to take care of your oral health during summer.
Getting enough water is key:
Hydration is critical to both your health and your oral health. As the temperature rises, it's easy to become dehydrated, which can lead to dry mouth. Dryness of the mouth, or xerostomia, creates an environment where harmful bacteria develop. Such an environment increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Drink a sufficient amount of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and saliva flowing, which will help the natural cleaning and remineralization of your teeth. Do not forget that conventionally 2 liters of water may not be enough for you, or at least it may be an excess for your body, so it is necessary for your Taking into account the body mass, calculate the daily amount of water.
Summer eating habits:
For many people, summer is synonymous with barbecue, ice cream, soft drinks and sugary treats. While it's tempting to indulge in these treats, be aware of your choices and their impact on your oral health. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods, as they contribute to enamel erosion and tooth decay. Choose alternatives to sweets such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and sugar-free cakes. Also, after eating acidic or sugary foods, wait about 30 minutes before brushing to allow saliva to naturally neutralize the acids.
Protect your smile:
Outdoor activities and sports are summer fun. In the summer, we often play beach handball, tennis, ride bicycles, and engage in many sports activities. Protecting our smile from potential accidents is essential. It is advisable to actively use mouthguards that fit easily in the mouth and reduce the likelihood of broken teeth, broken jaws or other oral injuries in an accident. For perfect protection and comfort, we should not ignore the safety rules that will make the summer even more unforgettable.
Do not forget to maintain oral hygiene:
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial year-round, and summer is certainly no exception. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably using fluoride-containing toothpaste and a soft brush. Don't forget to clean your tongue gently, as it also contains bacteria that are responsible for bad breath. Floss daily to thoroughly remove plaque and food particles between the teeth and along the gums. It is recommended to use an oral irrigator as part of your oral hygiene routine for added protection.
Schedule dental exams:
Summer is the perfect time for your routine dental checkup. Regular visits to the dentist can help you detect and prevent potential dental problems before they get worse. Professional cleaning removes plaque build-up, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Additionally, we can provide personalized advice throughout the summer to maintain optimal oral health, tailored to your specific needs.
Finally, as we have found out, taking care of oral health in summer requires a combination of different habits and regular dental visits. By staying hydrated, making smart food choices, protecting your smile with physical activity, maintaining routine oral hygiene, and scheduling checkups, you can ensure a healthy and bright smile all season long.
Get the most out of your summer, plan a visit with us and get even more confident about your year-round vacation.