Whether you have all sorts of activities planned or are taking some time this summer to relax in the sun and warm weather, you’re in for a great season. Something that you shouldn’t be forgetting about is the health of your teeth. You don’t want to be spending extra time in the dental chair this summer getting fillings and dealing with dental emergencies. Read on to learn some summer oral health tips from your dentist in Goodlettsville.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Your teeth are made to chew your food so you can stay nourished. If you’re using them for things like opening packages or chewing on items like pencils and pens, you can break, chip, and crack your teeth. This means more pain and more time getting them fixed. Remind your kids to only use their teeth for their purpose.
Watch What You Eat
If you and your family are relaxing around the house, you may feel more inclined to reach for a starchy or sugary snack. While they’re fine to have on occasion, too much can lead to increased tooth decay. Keep healthy snacks around the house like baby carrots, sliced apples, yogurt, nuts, and cheese. Instead of harmful beverages like soda and juice, reach for milk or water.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice and flossing once daily makes a big difference for the health of your smile. Summer is a great time to establish a good oral health routine, especially for the littlest members of the family. Don’t forget to schedule your family’s routine checkups and cleanings now that the kids are out of school.
Use a Custom-Made Mouthguard
If you or your kids are involved in contact sports, it is worthwhile to invest in a custom-made mouthguard. Staying active is great, and by wearing one, it’s easy to stay healthy while also protecting your smile from potential injuries. Your family dentistry in Goodlettsville can provide you with one. Just ask your dentist!
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is a necessary step that you need to take for the health of your entire body, mouth included. By staying hydrated, you can neutralize harmful acid that causes tooth decay, wash away food debris, and prevent dry mouth. If you’re dehydrated, you’re at higher risk for decay and bad breath. If your water contains fluoride, even better! Especially for the members your family who are still growing.
Protect Your Lips
Soaking in the sun’s rays helps you get the vitamin D you need to flourish. However, if you don’t protect your skin, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to serious conditions like skin cancer. Always wear sunscreen and use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.
Now that the weather is warm, you can enjoy the season that you’ve been waiting for all year. Just remind yourself the importance of taking care of your family’s smiles so you can continue to show them off!
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain is a family dentist located in Goodlettsville, TN. She completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery through Meharry Medical College in Nashville, where she was at the top of her class. She completed a dental residency through the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. Dr. McClain provides custom-made mouthguards at her practice. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (615) 859-0188.