PROTECT THAT SUMMER SMILE

Summertime for most means lots of time by the pool and out in the sun but did you also know it could mean dental health issues? Below you will find a list of some helpful tips to keep your smile safe this summer.

Summertime Smile Protection Tips

Stay Hydrated

This is good for your entire body but can especially be true when snacking and drinking by the pool. Keeping our mouths hydrated will help protect against tooth decay and keep our oral tissues moist and prevent them from drying out. Lemonade is a favorite summertime drink especially for kids but the high acidic content along with high sugar can equal a dry mouth and tooth decay development. Water will help wash away the excess sugars as well as neutralize that acidic content of the lemonade.

Snack Wisely

Making the right choices can keep you healthy while the wrong choices can damage your health. Good choices include fresh fruits like watermelon and bananas. Bad choices include many citrus fruits (which have a high sugar and acid content) and sugary snacks.

Sunscreen

Is Not Just For Your Body. Our dry summer heat here in Las Vegas can cause dry, chapped lips. Protected your lips with a lip balm or lip gloss with moisture and SPF protection is important. Damage to our lips can lead to oral cancer down the road. Try to use lip protection with an SPF rating of at least 15.

Protect Your Teeth.

Summertime also means outdoor activities including sports like basketball. It is important.

that you wear an athletic mouth guard to protect your teeth from the physical contact. There is also a possible reduction in risk of concussions when wearing a properly fitted mouth guard. A custom fabricated athletic mouth guard will keep your teeth safe while enjoying your favorite activities.

Swim Wisely.

Many people are unaware the damage swimming in a pool can cause on our dental health. Swimming in pools with high chlorine content can cause tooth enamel erosion. Swimming in the ocean is a better option. The high salt water content can actually reduce oral bacteria. SO, if swimming in a pool remember to brush and rinse regularly to limit the possible damage to your smile.

Avoid Sports Drinks.

Sports drinks have become extremely popular for athletes as well as non athletes. Most sports drinks are highly acidic with a high content of sugar. These drinks can lead to tooth enamel erosion as well as tooth decay. It is important to remember, sport drinks are made to replace what your body loses during extreme sweating and exertion, they are not meant to be a casual beverage consumed with lunch. Use them properly and you will not suffer the damage that they can incur.

Do Not Forget Breakfast.

People often forget the most important meal of the day especially in the summer. Skipping breakfast can lead to increased snacking on unhealthy items. Maintain a regular schedule of meals to stay healthy all summer.

Summertime is just around the corner, and it is never too early to get ready to protect our smiles and our families. Following these simple tips can keep you smiling all summer.

© 2015, Marielaina Perrone DDS. All rights reserved. Henderson Cosmetic Dentist

Source: http://drperrone.com/blog/summer-smile-protection/