3 Tips For Keeping Your Teeth Healthy This Summer

10 May 2017
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Summer time is full of awesome plans, including day trips to the lake, road trips with family or friends, and days at the pool, zoo, or summer camp. Whatever your summer plans, you should know that summer can also be a time when tooth health is compromised. Here's what you can do to make sure your teeth stay healthy this summer.

1. Stick with water.

Many people increase their intake of drinks like soda pop and lemonade during the summer months, sipping away all day to stay refreshed. However, this consistent sipping is what can wear away at your enamel. The constant bath of sugary acid provide fuel for decay-causing bacteria. Instead, stick with sipping ice water during the day, and if you want to enjoy a sugary beverage, save it for meal times and drink it all at once, instead of prolonging it will small portions all through the day. For even more tooth protection, use a straw. Be sure to brush your teeth after meals, and never crunch on ice as a means of refreshment. 

2. Stay hydrated.

Even though you should stay away from sipping sugary drinks, you should still make hydration a priority. Long days at the zoo or splash pad might mean you end the day with a dry mouth after your water bottle has been empty for hours. Always pack extra water bottles, and don't be afraid to pay for more, even if the prices are a little higher than you might like. Dry mouth greatly accelerates the rate of tooth decay because your saliva is not there to prevent bacteria from damaging your teeth. 

3. Be careful when you swim. 

Swimming is one of the main causes of increased dental injury during the summer. Many people hurt their teeth diving in shallow water, running on slippery pool decks, or even while enjoying a wild water slide. Be sure to follow all safety rules and avoid roughhousing, even in a private backyard pool.

Furthermore, it's also important to make sure that you brush your teeth after swimming, because chlorine can stain your teeth and increase decay. if you swim in your own private pool, check the pH frequently to make sure the water hasn't become too acidic. 

Summer can be a great time for outdoor activities and water fun, but not so great for your dental health if you aren't careful. For more information on keeping your teeth healthy this summer, contact a dentist in your area. For more information, visit http://www.premierdentalgrp.com