As the days get longer and temperatures start to climb, you feel compelled to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors. Not only is this great for lifting your spirits, but it’s also an excellent way to get some vitamin D and all the health benefits that come along with it. Still, there is reason to be cautious during the summer months, as some activities could pose a danger to your teeth and gums. Continue reading to learn about some of the potential hazards and discover what you can do to protect your smile in Round Rock.
Eating Cold Treats
The hot summer temperatures increase the desire for colder treats like popsicles, ice cream, snow cones and countless other delights. In some instances, this can cause sharp pains to radiate through a tooth. This can happen for a variety of reasons: a shallow enamel bed, a cavity that you weren’t aware of or an exposed tooth root.
Just to make sure that you’re not contributing to the issue, you’ll want to abstain from using whitening toothpastes. Instead, use the kind designed for sensitive teeth. Also, avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Look for an alternative with soft bristles to ensure you’re not damaging your enamel when you clean your teeth.
Drinking Sugary Beverages
In some regards, sugar is a key foe of your oral health, as it attracts bacteria to your teeth and gums. While the summer months are known for gallons of sweet tea, sports drinks, sodas and lemonade being consumed, drinking these beverages could possibly cause havoc for your oral health.
Instead of complete denial, take a more moderate approach by treating yourself to a sweet beverage at certain times of the day. At other times, focus on drinking more water.
Playing Sports
If you or your children will be participating in any summer sporting events, there’s always a chance of a sudden impact from another person or a stray ball that causes an injury. To be on the safe side, it’s best to wear a mouthguard. While generic options can be found at your local sporting goods store, the most effective route is to have a custom mouthguard created by a dentist. Therefore, you can rest assured that it will better absorb any force that is applied to the mouth to protect the teeth and gums.
One of the best things you can do for yourself and your family is to schedule a preventive care visit with a dentist in Round Rock at the start of the summer. With a complete oral health assessment and cleaning, you can safely enjoy the upcoming fun!
About the Author
Dr. Mike Asay earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. An avid learner, he takes several hours of continuing education annually to stay abreast of the vast changes in the dental world. Additionally, Dr. Asay maintains professional affiliation with the Seattle Study Club, Texas Dental Association, Capital Area Dental Society and other organizations. He offers an array of dental services at Chisholm Trail Dental Health, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.