During the summer, we’re typically less concerned about our oral health than we are with our overall health. While summer is a wonderful time to get away from our daily routine and enjoy the outdoors, it’s also a common time for us to neglect oral health. Luckily, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure that your smile remains bright throughout the summer. Here are 5 great oral health tips to keep your mouth happy this summer!
Avoiding sugary foods: Sugary food and drinks are notorious for demineralizing teeth, stripping away important minerals from porous enamel. So it’s important to limit these foods as much as possible. The culprit behind these problems is the sugary residue on your teeth. Sugary food residue feeds microbes in your mouth, leading to cavities and gum disease. Try to limit your daily intake of sweets, and always use a straw to drink them.
Modeling good oral health habits: Parents with good dental hygiene are likely to have excellent oral health themselves. Brush with your children and accompany them to the dentist to teach them how to brush their teeth properly. Model the satisfaction that comes with a clean mouth! Also, don’t forget to take care of your teeth and floss frequently. The American Dental Association has endorsed specific kids’ toothbrushes and toothpaste, so your child can choose a product that’s right for them.
Choosing sugar-free alternatives: If you can’t avoid sugar-sweetened foods and drinks, try using sugar-free products instead. Sugar-free candies and chewing gum are great for your oral health. If you cannot avoid sweets completely, try replacing sugar with xylitol. Xylitol can be purchased in bulk and is also an excellent substitute for sugar in baking recipes. It works to balance the pH levels in the mouth and makes it hard for bacteria to attach to your teeth. This helps prevent cavities and other dental health problems.
Lastly, make sure to use a mouthguard when playing sports. These mouthguards distribute forces evenly and protect your teeth from damage. In addition, you should try to avoid drinking acidic beverages, as they accelerate the wear and tear of tooth enamel. In addition, be sure to rinse your mouth out well after every meal. For an extra healthy mouth, try chewing gum or using an interdental cleaner. If you can’t avoid brushing your teeth, these supplemental aids may help you maintain the flow of saliva, which is very important for keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
Brushing and flossing are two of the best ways to prevent dental problems and improve your overall health. By brushing and flossing twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, you will remove plaque and bacteria that build on the teeth and cause them to become acidic. These bacteria then cause tooth decay. The best way to fight this problem is to practice good oral hygiene every day. For more information on dental hygiene, visit your dentist at least twice a year.