Summer is a time of fun and relaxation, but it can also be a time when your dental health is put at risk.

With all the sugary drinks and food you consume during this season, it’s easy for your teeth to suffer from problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity. Here are ten tips to help you maintain your dental health and keep your teeth healthy this summer.

1. Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing daily is essential throughout the year, but it’s especially important during the summer when you’re more likely to consume sugary drinks and snacks.

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums. This will also prevent bad breath and keep your teeth feeling clean and fresh.

2. Use Mouthwash

In addition to brushing and flossing, consider using mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth. Mouthwash kills germs that cause bad breath and can protect your teeth from decay and gum disease.

Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to give your teeth an extra layer of protection. If you have sensitive teeth, look for a mouthwash that is designed for sensitive teeth.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential to good health, including your dental health. Water keeps your mouth hydrated, washes away food particles and sugars, and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in your mouth.

Try to drink eight glasses of water each day, and carry a reusable water bottle with you when you are out in the sun to stay hydrated constantly.

4. Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks

Sugary drinks and snacks can harm your teeth by providing food for bacteria, causing cavities, and eroding your enamel. Avoid drinking sugary sodas, juices, and sports drinks, and instead opt for water, tea, or flavored seltzer.

If you want to snack, choose foods that are low in sugar, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, or cheese. Avoid sticky snacks like caramel or gummy candies, which can cling to your teeth and cause decay.

5. Wear a Mouthguard

If you plan to play contact sports this summer or engage in any physical activity that could cause dental injuries, wear a mouthguard. Mouthguards help cushion your teeth and gums, preventing chips and cracks from contact with hard surfaces.

Related Article Summer Tooth Care: Dos and Don’ts

You can find mouthguards in sporting goods stores, or you can have a custom-fitted one made by your dentist for maximum protection.

6. Be Careful with Your Teeth

Summer activities can also pose a risk to your teeth if you’re not careful. Be careful not to chew on ice, which can crack your teeth, and avoid using your teeth as tools by opening packages, bottles, or other items.

If you grind your teeth when you sleep, consider wearing a mouthguard at night to prevent damage to your teeth.

7. Consider Dental Sealants

Dental sealants can help protect your teeth from cavities by making them less prone to decay. Sealants are thin coatings made of a special material that is applied to the surfaces of your back teeth.

These teeth are particularly susceptible to decay because they have deep grooves and crevices where food and bacteria can collect. Your dentist can apply sealants in a quick and painless procedure that can last for several years.

8. Visit Your Dentist

Summer is the perfect time to visit your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning. Your dentist can detect any potential problems early before they become more significant and provide you with tips on maintaining good oral health.

Schedule your appointment early in the summer, so you have plenty of time to address any issues before your summer vacation or events.

9. Stick to Your Oral Health Routine When Travelling

Traveling can disrupt your daily routine, including your oral health habits. Make sure to pack a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss to ensure that you can maintain your oral health routine while on the go.

Carry a container of mouthwash or purchase a travel-size bottle and rinse your mouth after meals or whenever you feel like you need to freshen your breath.

10. Consider Cosmetic Dentistry

If you are unhappy with your smile, consider cosmetic dentistry procedures to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

Summer can be an excellent time to schedule treatments like teeth whitening, dental bonding, or veneers since you have more time to recover and enjoy your new smile.