DENTIST IN NORTH PORT GIVES 4 ORAL HEALTH TIPS FOR THE SUMMER
Summer is finally here. Whether you prefer swimming at the beach or reading in the shade in your backyard, summer is a time of relaxation and leisure. Unfortunately, sometimes we let our oral hygiene fall by the wayside, especially during vacation. Make sure to follow these 4 oral health tips from a dentist in North Port to keep your smile beautiful this summer!
Drink Water
There aren’t very many problems that drinking water can’t help to solve, especially during the hot days of summer. Oral health problems are no exception. Water can help wash away plaque-causing bacteria, preventing decay. Drink a glass of water after a meal to clear away leftover food and lower your chances of infection. It can also freshen your breath!
Staying hydrated can keep dry mouth at bay. Dry mouth results from an inadequate flow of saliva. Saliva is your mouth’s first form of defense against tooth decay, as it washes away bits of food left behind and allows you to swallow with ease. Drinking water can help you maintain a steady supply of saliva.
Don’t Chew on Ice
It might help you cool down for the moment, but chewing on ice can seriously damage your teeth in the long run. Biting ice can gradually wear on your teeth’s enamel, making them more sensitive over time and increasing your risk of developing cavities.
Drinking cold water is a healthier method of cooling down. If you still find yourself craving ice, you may just be in the mood to chomp on something. Try chewing sugar-free gum to squash the urge to eat ice.
Cut Down on Sugary Drinks
Summer vacation is a common time to treat yourself to margaritas or fruit juice. Although they might be marketed as “healthy” due to their fruit content, they are more often than not packed with sugar, increasing your likelihood of getting cavities.
To protect your teeth this summer, try instead drinking water or unsweetened tea. Diluted juice can satisfy your need for something fruity without damaging your teeth.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Many of us let go of our routines on those lazy summer days, but you still need to maintain your oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once, and you’ll significantly reduce your chances of getting an infection or another oral health problem. You don’t want one of those to hurt your smile this summer!
Oral health is probably the last thing you’re thinking about on your vacation, but it’s important. Taking time out of your relaxing summer to follow these tips can save your teeth in the long run. You can keep enjoying your beautiful smile for many summers to come!
About the Practice
At Shore Dental in North Port, FL, we are dedicated to providing stress-free and convenient care for all kinds of patients. Dr. David Smith and Dr. Paul Stein have both been members of the Florida Dental Association. They offer preventive dentistry services to help patients catch potential problems early on. Along with following the tips in this post, seeing your dentists every six months is vital to maintaining oral health. To learn more about keeping your mouth healthy, call (941)-257-0826.