Summer days and nights find us relaxing by the beach or pool, enjoying a family bbq, or going away for a vacation. While you take more time to relax, slow down, and spend more time with friends and family, keep these tips in mind to make sure that your dental health doesn’t take a break as well:
Less is best when it comes to sweets. Scorching summer days may mean more sugary treats which are sometimes more convenient alternatives especially when you’re on the go. Remember to eat ice cream, freezies, desserts, or drink sugary drinks in moderation. The sugar in these treats and drinks mixes with the bacteria in our mouths, creating acid that can then damage your teeth enamel. Remember also to drink water after high-sugar treats and to brush and floss as soon afterward as you can.
Avoid decay and sip water all day. Staying hydrated especially while playing sports is important at any time of the year. Summer heat makes ice cold pop, sports drinks, and juices seem all the more refreshing but cold water is the better choice. Not only is it all natural and sugar-free, but water keeps our mouths healthy and clean and increases our saliva levels, which in turn boosts the natural tooth-decay fighting proteins in our mouth.
Keep your brush-and-floss routine going. Fun-filled, adventurous days and nights may increase the temptation to just fall into bed without brushing or flossing, especially when your regular schedule is off or when you or your kids are away on holidays, at camp, or at sleepovers. Going the extra mile to keep your brushing and flossing routine regular goes a long way in keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy.
Get ready dentally before your summer getaway. If you’re travelling far away or for an extended period of time this summer, it’s best to book a dental exam or check-up a few weeks before you go. Call us at Southeast Dental in Markham 905-471-2002 to book yours today. Dental issues and emergencies are much easier to deal with at home with your regular dentist. When packing, make sure that you bring new travel toothbrushes in your travel kits and leave your regular toothbrushes at home so that going back to that brush-and-floss schedule is more seamless.
Protect your lips from sunburn. Protecting our skin from harmful UV rays with sunblock is almost second nature for us, but protecting our lips is just as important. Choose a lip balm with at least an SPF 15 and use it on your lips every couple of hours to avoid sunburned lips.
We hope you’ll find these few simple tips helpful while you enjoy the warm summer weather. And remember that in case of a dental emergency this summer, the doors to our office are always open for you. We can take care of your chipped or broken teeth, broken dentures or implants, abscesses or any tooth pain any time of the day or night.
Check out our other blog posts for more helpful dental care tips. Happy summer brushing!