5 Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy This Summer

You have been waiting all year for summer to come back around. You have so many fun activities planned. Whether you will be spending your time visiting friends and family, traveling someplace new, or lounging out at the beach, you’ll make some amazing memories! However, you don’t want your plans to be ruined thanks to a dental emergency that pops up. Continue reading to learn some oral health tips to keep your smile healthy during the summer months.

Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene

You must maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine to keep your smile in good health. Be sure that you are brushing twice and flossing once every single day. Rinsing with mouthwash is another great step to add to your routine. See your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups every six months so you can ensure that your smile is both clean and healthy.

Cut Back on Your Sugar Intake

If you’re like the majority of people, summer means that there’s more of an urge to reach for an ice-cold sports drink, soda, or adult beverage. You might even stock up on ice cream and popsicles to stay cool during the warmer weather. Enjoying one of these treats on occasion isn’t usually a problem, but if you are constantly sipping and snacking on sugary treats, you are much more likely to develop tooth decay or gum disease. No one wants to spend their summer in the dental chair getting work done!

Stay Hydrated

The best thing you can drink to stay hydrated is water. It is crucial for pretty much every part of your body to function properly. Tap water is even a better option! That’s because tap water contains a natural mineral known as “fluoride.” This is what helps to protect your teeth from developing decay. Fluoride is especially beneficial for younger children because their adult teeth are still developing.

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Your teeth are there to help you chew your food, hold your saliva in, and smile! They aren’t made for opening packaging, crunching on the ice floating in your drink, or biting on your fingernails. You could end up with a cracked or chipped tooth. Only use your teeth for their intended purpose.

Use a Mouthguard

It is an excellent idea to get outside and stay active, both to have fun and stay healthy. However, contact sports are a common way that people end up with a knocked-out or broken tooth. By wearing a mouthguard, you can significantly reduce your risk of hurting your smile while your head is in the game.

Don’t leave your smile behind this summer! By using the tips above, you can keep your pearly whites in excellent shape.

About the Author

Dr. Heliben Desai is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over a decade. After studying dentistry in India, she completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. For more ways to keep your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment at her office in Grand Prairie, visit her website or call (469) 346-8828.