Summer is often a fun carefree time and a wonderful break from routine. A break from routine can be a great thing, full of rest, relaxation and joy. But, it can also lead to your health suffering if you forget about important parts of your normal routine like dental care. Let’s talk about 5 dental health tips for summer to keep your smile at its brightest.
1. Have Toothbrush, Will Travel
Whether you are packing for a vacation, road trip, camping or mini vacation at a friend’s house, it’s important to always remember to pack a toothbrush and toothpaste so that you can be sure to brush your teeth after each meal. Many stores carry small travel-sized toothbrushes and toothpastes, often with a convenient travel case or cover to protect the toothbrush so that you can keep it with you and quickly stash it in your backpack or purse between uses.
2. Carry a Dental Pick
Flossing daily is always important, but when you don’t have time to floss and you have something stuck in between your teeth, a dental pick can be super helpful. Keep one in your purse, backpack, bathroom, kitchen, car, toiletry kit and anywhere else so you always have one handy just when you need it.
3. Nature’s Toothbrushes
One of the most important dental health tips for summer is to choose foods that can support dental health. Did you know that some foods can naturally clean your teeth and have even been fondly referred to as “nature’s toothbrushes”? Foods like apples, celery and carrots are crunchy and full of vitamins and minerals to nourish your body and help clean your teeth. Of course, they are no substitute for actually brushing your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste but they can help keep your teeth cleaner and healthier when eaten as a snack or in place of other foods.
4. Xylitol for the Win
Among the easiest to implement dental health tips for summer is to opt for sugar-free options when available if you are choosing sweet drinks or treats, but did you know that you can take it one step further? Xylitol is a sweetener that is used in many chewing gums as well as some candies and drinks, it can also be purchased in bulk to use in place of sugar in baking recipes. Xylitol is a special alternative to sugar because it can actually benefit your teeth. It works to neutralize the pH balance of your mouth over time, reducing bacteria content and making it more difficult for bacteria to attach to your teeth, which can help to prevent cavities from occurring. One thing to be aware of about xylitol, is that it is toxic to dogs and other animals, so make sure to keep any treats or products containing xylitol out of reach from any family pets.
5. Stay on Top of Your Family’s Dental Appointments
Last but not least of our dental health tips for summer: Make appointments with your family’s dentist to ensure that everyone stays on schedule with their routine cleanings, exams and care. Summer can be a busy time, so it’s extra important to schedule ahead and make it a priority. With kids out of school and adults taking extra vacation days, there can be a tendency to forget things like doctor and dentist appointments, but the break from everyone’s normal busy routine can also make it a great time to fit in the whitening treatment or dental repair procedure you may have been putting off and ensure everyone in the family gets the dental care they need to keep their smiles healthy and bright.
Call our Dowagiac Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.