Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities, vacation, and relaxation. However, the summer season can also be tough on your teeth and gums.

With the warm temperature, longer days, and plethora of sugary treats, it’s important to take extra care of your teeth to avoid dental problems. Here are some summer tooth care dos and don’ts to keep your smile healthy and bright.

Do: Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is vital during summer. It helps keep your body and mouth hydrated, which is important for your oral health. Dry mouth can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Besides, drinking water can also help rinse away food particles and bacteria that can cause cavities.

Don’t: Eat too many sugary treats

Summer is a season of sweet indulgence, with ice cream, popsicles, and sugary drinks all around us. While these treats can be tempting, they can also wreak havoc on your teeth.

Consuming too much sugary food and drinks can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Try to limit your intake of these treats, and remember to brush and floss your teeth after indulging.

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor sports, such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball. However, these activities can also increase the risk of dental injuries.

Wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and gums from trauma, particularly if you’re playing contact sports. Make sure to choose a mouthguard that fits well and is comfortable to wear.

Don’t: Use your teeth as tools

During summer, you may find yourself opening bottles, bags, or packages with your teeth. However, using your teeth as tools can damage your enamel, chip your teeth, or even lead to a broken tooth.

Always use the appropriate tools for the task, and avoid using your teeth as a substitute.

Do: Schedule a dental check-up

Summer can be a busy season, but it’s still important to prioritize your dental health. Scheduling a dental check-up can ensure that your teeth and gums are in good condition, and catch any potential issues early on.

Your dentist can also provide tips on how to keep your oral health in check during summer.

Don’t: Neglect your oral hygiene

Summer can be a time of relaxation, but it’s important not to let your oral hygiene slip. Skipping brushing or flossing can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath.

Make sure to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day to remove any food particles and debris.

Do: Wear a hat and sunscreen

While this might not seem related to your teeth, wearing a hat and sunscreen can have a significant impact on your oral health. Overexposure to the sun can lead to dry lips, which can cause cracking and soreness.

Applying sunscreen to your lips and wearing a hat can help prevent this problem and protect your overall oral health.

Don’t: Overconsume alcohol

Summer is a time for relaxation and celebration, but be careful not to overconsume alcoholic beverages, as they can lead to oral health problems.

Not only can alcohol dry out your mouth and cause bad breath, but it can also increase the risk of oral cancer. If you do drink alcohol, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards.

Do: Choose healthy snacks

While it’s tempting to indulge in sugary treats all summer long, there are plenty of healthy snacks that are good for your teeth. Fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, and nuts are all great choices that can promote strong teeth and gums.

These foods can also help stimulate saliva production, which can neutralize harmful acids and bacteria in your mouth.

Summary

Summer is a time of fun and relaxation, but it’s important not to neglect your oral health. By following these dos and don’ts, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and bright all season long.

Remember to stay hydrated, eat healthy snacks, wear a mouthguard when playing sports, and schedule a dental check-up to keep your oral health in check. With a little extra care, your smile will sparkle all summer long.