10 Tips for a Tooth-Healthy Summer

With all that fun in the sun, though, it is easy to accidentally let a few important oral care habits slip. Check out our top 10 tips below to keep your smile healthy and bright all season long. 

Tip #1: Stick to Your Routine 

Your oral care routine is one of the easiest things to fall by the wayside when summer throws off your schedule. However, skipping even one brushing session can have more of an impact than you may think. Plaque can begin hardening into tartar in as little as 48 hours, so brushing twice a day is your best defense against buildup. Make it a habit to start each morning and end each night with a brush and floss to keep your smile shining bright. 

Tip #2: Drink Plenty of Water 

Although most people know the importance of staying hydrated in the summer heat, its impact on oral health often goes overlooked. A healthy saliva flow is critical for washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and protecting against bacteria. Spending long days in the sun without enough water can lead to dry mouth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Keep a water bottle handy throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and feeling fresh. 

Tip #3: Limit Sugary Drinks 

Lemonade, iced tea, soda, and juice are all popular choices on a warm summer day, but frequent exposure to sugary and acidic beverages can significantly increase your risk of cavities and enamel erosion. Water is always your best choice for a go-to drink. However, when you do indulge in a fun summer beverage, try to enjoy it with a meal when saliva production is at its highest. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away sugar before it can cause damage. 

Tip #4: Avoid Chewing on Ice 

Nothing beats a cold iced beverage on a hot summer day, as long as the ice stays in the drink. Ice is hard, and biting down on it can cause tooth chips, fractures, and even damage existing dental restorations like fillings and crowns. If you find yourself frequently tempted to chew the ice, try using a straw to keep it away from your teeth altogether. 

Tip #5: Watch What You Snack on 

Long days of swimming, hiking, and outdoor activities can work up quite an appetite, making it tempting to reach for whatever snack is closest. However, it is best to skip sticky, sugary, and starchy foods. These foods cling to your teeth and contribute to plaque and tartar buildup over time. Instead, choose tooth-friendly snacks like crunchy vegetables, cheese, nuts, and hard-boiled eggs. These options are not only better for your smile but also help stimulate saliva production to naturally clean your teeth between brushings. 

Tip #6: Protect Your Lips 

When it comes to sun protection, the lips are one of the most forgotten areas. The skin on the lips is thinner than most other areas of the body, making them especially vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Prolonged exposure can even increase the risk of oral cancer. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to shield your lips from sun exposure. Be sure to reapply every two hours, especially on days when you are spending extended time outdoors. 

Tip #7: Rinse After Swimming 

As refreshing as spending the summer at the pool can be, the chlorine and chemicals that keep the water clean can gradually weaken tooth enamel over time. This is especially important to keep in mind for kids who are on a swim team or visit the pool multiple times a week. A quick rinse with water after swimming can go a long way in reducing the impact of those chemicals on your enamel. Make it a habit for the whole family so no one skips it. 

Tip #8: Stay Up on Cleanings 

Staying consistent with your regular dental cleanings is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health, yet appointments are often the first thing to get pushed aside when summer schedules fill up. Professional cleanings every six months remove calcified tartar that brushing and flossing simply cannot tackle on their own. If you have a cleaning scheduled this summer, make it a priority and keep your smile healthy going into the fall season. 

Tip #9: Pack a Dental Travel Kit 

No matter where your summer travels take you, your oral care routine should always come along for the ride. Whenever you are away overnight, make sure to bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. Consider keeping a dedicated travel kit packed and ready to go so you never have to think twice about it. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your oral care routine never has to take a vacation. 

Tip #10: Use a Mouthguard 

With roughly three million teeth knocked out each year due to sports-related injuries, it is crucial to protect your child’s smile during summer sports leagues. Mouthguards work by cushioning the teeth and absorbing the impact from collisions, significantly reducing the risk of chips, fractures, and knocked-out teeth. For the best protection, consider investing in a custom mouthguard from your dental office. They are designed to fit your child’s mouth precisely for maximum comfort and coverage. 

Have a Tooth-Healthy Summer! 

Summer is a season full of memories worth smiling about, so make sure your smile is ready for all of it. By keeping a few simple habits in mind, you can enjoy everything the season has to offer without compromising your oral health. If you are due for a cleaning or have any concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your dental team and get your smile summer-ready.