Have you thought about caring for your teeth during the summer months? Ahhh, the lazy, hazy days of summer are upon us! Barbeques, later nights, hot weather and throwing routine out the window! Throw in the odd extra treat (especially those sugary freeze pops) and you may be more at risk for dental related problems. Don’t let that happen to you! Follow our summer-time dental care suggestions to have fun this summer without a toothache!
⦁ Try to stick to your oral health care routine. We get it – it is hard to stick with routine with a more relaxed summer schedule. Bedtimes are extended, sleeping in is encouraged and extra snacks are plentiful. Try to stick with your regular routine of brushing at least twice per day and flossing at least once. With the extra time at home, at least for the kids, it may just be a great time to introduce brushing after lunch as well as first thing in the morning and last thing before bed!
⦁ If you are camping or otherwise traveling, don’t forget to pack your toothbrush! Small kits are available at any pharmacy in a travel size, or you could save the samples your dental hygienist has given you at your last hygiene appointment. They take up no room at all in your luggage and will help to keep your teeth healthy while you vacation.
⦁ Keep the sugary treats and snacks to a reasonable amount. Summer is the time for delicious ice cream as well as other frozen treats. These treats taste amazing, but can wreak havoc on the health of your teeth! Enjoy in moderation, just like the rest of the year for optimal tooth health.
⦁ Don’t let vacation interfere with your regular scheduled preventive hygiene appointments. It is so easy to make so many plans in the summer that you forget to make the time for regular appointments. Please don’t put off your hygiene appointment! This is a very important appointment that will ensure the health of your gums and identify potential small problems before they become big.
Follow these tips for caring for your teeth to help keep your summer smile as healthy as the rest of the year! We hope you have an amazing, relaxing summer and remember, we love to see your smile in our office no matter what the season!