Summer is here, which means spending a lot of time outdoors, indulging in sweet treats, and soaking up the sunshine. As you gather with friends and family for warm-weather festivities, are you placing your smile at risk? Although you probably aren’t thinking about your teeth and gums while playing football or cooling off with a cold glass of soda, your summer habits can harm your teeth and gums. Don’t worry, here’s how you can protect your smile in Lakeway without missing out on any plans.
1. Prevent tooth sensitivity.
Summer wouldn’t be the same without ice cream and slushies. Unfortunately, if you have untreated cavities, exposed tooth roots, or tiny fractures, enjoying your favorite treat might make you pucker your lips in pain. Tooth sensitivity is a common occurrence, which can be caused by several factors, but you don’t need to skip your favorite cold treat. Visiting your dentist for a cleaning and checkup will ensure there aren’t any untreated dental issues lingering in your mouth. It’s also best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day. If you’re prone to tooth sensitivity, consider using a desensitizing toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss daily, too.
2. Skip sugary or acidic drinks.
You know you’re supposed to drink plenty of water during the summer to stay hydrated, but it’s also important for your smile. While you could choose lemonade, sports drinks, or soda, you would be bathing your teeth in sugar that cavity-causing bacteria thrive on. Sugary and acidic drinks can erode your enamel, which doesn’t regenerate once it’s gone. You can lower your risk of tooth sensitivity and decay by choosing water over other beverages.
3. Wear an athletic mouthguard.
Sports and other activities are a great way to stay fit and pass time, but if you aren’t careful, your summer plans might be ruined by a dental emergency. Sudden oral health issues can occur for several reasons; however, most are sports-related. You can significantly lower your risk of oral injuries by wearing an athletic mouthguard. It provides a protective barrier for your teeth, soft tissues, and jaw to lessen the severity of an injury to your face. In some cases, an athletic mouthguard can even lower the risk of concussion. Your dentist in Lakeway can create a custom-fit, durable mouthguard to benefit from maximum protection.
Don’t let an unexpected oral health problem limit your summer fun. You can safeguard your smile by making a few changes that can have a lasting impact on your teeth and gums.
About Dr. Daniel Eaddy
Dr. Eaddy earned his dental degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center and was one of 12 members in his class to be inducted into a national dental honor society. He has completed advanced training in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. He can resolve complex issues using the latest advancements in periodontics, dental implants, endodontics, and orthodontics. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today.
0 comments