6 Oral Health Tips for a Bright Summer Smile

Most people deem the warmer months as a chance to take a break from the daily grind. Whether you’re going on an international excursion, visiting your local pool, or planning a backyard BBQ, there are many exciting things to look forward to this summer. But if you’re not careful, your smile could suffer amidst the fun. Read on to learn six summer oral health tips to maintain a bright, healthy grin.

Stay On Top of Your Oral Hygiene Routine

It’s normal to fall out of routine during summer vacation, especially if you have a hectic schedule. Regardless, you must adapt to your new day-to-day life and stay on top of your oral hygiene regimen. Prevent plaque and bacteria buildup by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day.

Drink Plenty of Water

There’s nothing more refreshing than chugging cold water on a hot summer day. Drinking plenty of water keeps your body hydrated and healthy. Plus, it benefits your oral health! Water washes away plaque-causing bacteria and sugars, which can stave off bad breath. If possible, opt for fluoridated water to strengthen your enamel and make your teeth more resistant to decay.

Watch Your Sugar Intake

Before you hop in the queue at a local ice cream shop, take a second to think about your oral health. Ice cream, popsicles, and snow cones are summer staples, but they can have detrimental effects on your teeth. These sugary treats can lead to tooth decay, cavities, tooth sensitivity, and even gum disease. It’s best to limit your consumption, but if you must indulge, opt for sugar-free alternatives.

Pack Healthy Snacks

While preparing your beach bag, make sure you pack nutritious snacks the entire family can enjoy. Foods like baby carrots, celery, apple slices, plain yogurt, whole-grain crackers, and plain nuts are the best choices for your oral and bodily health!

Avoid Chewing on Ice

For some people, the best part about a cool drink is eating the leftover ice. However, this habit can damage your oral health. Chewing ice can cause cracked or chipped teeth, enamel erosion, increased sensitivity, and even lead to tooth decay. If you must satisfy the craving, try eating “soft” ice instead (i.e., a slushie or snow cone).

Protect Your Lips from the Sun

Everyone knows to wear sunscreen if they’re going to be out in the sun all day, but most tend to overlook their lips. Since the skin is thinner and contains less melanin, lips are just as susceptible to sun damage as other parts of the body. Their vulnerability to sunburns increases the risk of oral and skin cancer. Protect your lips from the sun by wearing a moisturizing lip balm with an SPF 30+ rating and reapplying every two hours.

Maintaining a healthy smile is a year-round commitment. By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer to the fullest without putting your oral health at risk.

About the Author

Dr. Mike Hamid Mirsepasi brings over 23 years of experience to HM Dentistry. After working as a general dentist, he underwent three years of additional training to obtain his Graduate Prosthodontic Specialty Certificate from the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (now known as Rutgers University Dental School). Contact us via our website or call (972) 231-5744 to schedule a preventive visit with Dr. Mirsepasi to ensure your smile is summer-ready.