8 Top Summer Tips for a Healthy Smile
Summertime is a fun time. There’s sunshine, vacations, staycations, and lots of outdoor fun. With all the excitement and activities, it’s easy to let your smile care slip from your daily routine. However, maintaining a healthy smile during the summer months is just as important as ever. Here are some summer tips to help you keep your teeth and gums in great shape while enjoying all the season has to offer.
Stay Hydrated
One of the best things you can do for your smile health in the summer is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to:
- Wash Away Food Particles: Drinking water helps clean your mouth of food after you’ve eaten and the bacteria that can cause tooth decay and bad breath.
- Promote Saliva Production: Saliva helps neutralize acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay. Staying hydrated ensures your body can produce enough saliva.
- Keep Gums Healthy: Dehydration can cause dry mouth, which can lead to gum disease. Drinking water keeps your gums moist and healthy.
Choose Healthy Snacks
Summer is a time for picnics, barbecues, and snacking by the pool. While sugary treats and drinks are tempting, they can wreak havoc on your teeth. Instead, opt for healthier snacks such as:
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery are great choices. They are not only nutritious but also help clean your teeth as you eat them.
- Cheese and Yogurt: Dairy products are rich in calcium and phosphates, which help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds are great for your teeth. They are high in essential nutrients and help stimulate saliva production.
Limit Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks like soda, lemonade, and sports drinks can be particularly harmful to your teeth. The sugar in these beverages can combine with bacteria in your mouth to form acid, which erodes tooth enamel. Instead, try:
- Water with a Splash of Fruit: We love adding lemon, orange, or cucumber to our water for a refreshing and healthy alternative.
- Herbal Teas: Unsweetened herbal teas are a great way to stay hydrated without the added sugar.
- Milk: Milk contains essential minerals and vitamins such as calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for maintaining strong teeth and bones.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
No matter the season, practicing good daily oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Be sure to:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time. Remember to brush your tongue, too, since it can have bacteria on it.
- Floss Daily: Flossing cleans between your teeth and along the gumline, removing food particles and plaque.
- Use Mouthwash: Using fluoride mouthwash can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
Protect Your Teeth During Activities
Summer often means increased physical activity, whether it’s playing sports, swimming, or enjoying other outdoor adventures. Protect your teeth by:
- Wearing a Mouthguard: If you’re playing contact sports like football, soccer, or basketball, a mouthguard can help prevent dental injuries.
- Avoiding Hard Foods: Be cautious with foods like popcorn, ice, and hard candies, which can crack or chip your teeth.
Be Mindful of Chlorine
Swimming is a popular summer activity, but did you know that chlorine in pools can affect your teeth? Chlorine can erode tooth enamel if you spend a lot of time in the water. To minimize the impact:
- Keep Your Mouth Closed: Try to avoid letting pool water into your mouth.
- Rinse Your Mouth: After swimming, make sure to rinse your mouth with fresh water to remove any chlorine residue.
Schedule a Dental Check-Up
Summer is a great time to schedule a dental check-up, especially for children who are out of school. Regular dental visits are crucial for:
- Early Detection of Issues: Getting regular dental visits is key to identifying and treating problems like cavities and gum disease early, before they become serious.
- Professional Cleaning: A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach.
- Personalized Advice: Our top Chicago dentists can give you personalized advice on the best ways to keep your smile in the best shape.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Using tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, regular cigarettes, and chewing tobacco, can have severe consequences for your oral health. Tobacco use is a leading cause of:
- Gum Disease: Tobacco can lead to severe gum disease, which can result in tooth loss.
- Oral Cancer: Tobacco is known to increase your risk factor for oral cancer.
- Stained Teeth and Bad Breath: Tobacco can stain your teeth and cause chronic bad breath.
If you use tobacco products, consider seeking help to quit. Your dentist can provide resources and support to help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s essential to keep your oral health in mind. By staying hydrated, choosing healthy snacks, limiting sugary drinks, and practicing good oral hygiene, you can keep your healthy smile all season long. Remember to eat healthy, protect your teeth during activities, be mindful of chlorine, schedule a dental check-up, and avoid tobacco products.
Our team is here to answer any questions you have. You can also schedule an APPOINTMENT or a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or Call us at 773-481-2200