Summer Oral Hygiene

Summer is a season of relaxation, fun, and adventure. However, it is also when many people neglect their oral hygiene. Summertime activities, such as vacations, outdoor sports, and sugary treats, can affect your teeth and gums. As a result, it's essential to prioritize your dental care routine during the season.

This guide will provide tips and insights from your Lewiston Clarkston dentist on maintaining good oral hygiene during summertime.

Tips for Summertime Oral Health

1. Schedule a Check-Up with Canyon Dental

Regular dental check-ups are crucial to maintaining good oral health. A dental exam allows your dentist to identify any potential problems and address them before they escalate into something more serious. Before the start of the summer season, schedule an appointment with Lewiston Clarkston dentist for a routine check-up. During the check-up, our dentist will clean your teeth and gums, perform an oral cancer screening, and check for any signs of cavities or gum disease.

2. Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing are the foundation of good oral hygiene. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the back molars and tongue, to remove plaque and food particles. Floss at least once a day to clean between your teeth and gums, where your toothbrush cannot reach.

3. Use Mouthwash

Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help to kill bacteria that cause bad breath and gum disease. Look for mouthwash that contains fluoride and antibacterial ingredients. Mouthwash can also freshen your breath, which is particularly important during summertime when social events are more frequent.

4. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Sugary Drinks and Snacks

Drinking water throughout the day is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Water helps to wash away food particles and neutralize the acid that can damage your teeth. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks as they can increase the acidity in your mouth, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Opt for healthy alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which are also great for your overall health.

5. Protect Your Teeth During Physical Activities

Summer is a great time for outdoor sports and activities, but it can put your teeth at risk. Wear a mouthguard during any physical activity that could cause an impact on your teeth or jaw. A mouthguard can protect your teeth from chips, cracks, or loss.

6. Practice Good Oral Hygiene During Travel

Vacations are a time for relaxation and indulgence, but they can also disrupt your dental care routine. Pack a travel toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash in your suitcase, and continue to brush and floss regularly during your trip. If you're traveling to an area where water is not fluoridated, consider using a fluoride mouthwash or a fluoride supplement to maintain your oral health.

7. Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically appear in your late teens or early twenties. They can cause discomfort, pain, and infection if they do not have enough space to grow. If you experience any pain or discomfort in your wisdom teeth, you can visit Lewiston Clarkston dentist for an evaluation. We may recommend wisdom teeth removal as a preventive measure.

8. Limit Your Alcohol and Tobacco Consumption

Alcohol and tobacco can harm your oral health. Drinking and smoking can cause bad breath, tooth discoloration, gum disease, and oral cancer. Limit alcohol and tobacco consumption or avoid them altogether to maintain good oral hygiene.

9. Chew Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can help to clean your teeth and freshen your breath. Gum stimulates saliva production, which helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth and wash away food particles. Look for sugarless gum containing xylitol, a natural sweetener that can prevent tooth decay.

10. Clean Your Tongue

Your tongue can harbor bacteria that can cause bad breath and gum disease. Use a tongue scraper or brush to clean your tongue after brushing your teeth. Gently scrape or brush your tongue from back to front to remove bacteria or debris.

11. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools

Your teeth are designed for chewing and biting, not as tools to open bottles or tear open packages. Using your teeth as tools can cause chips, cracks, or even fractures, which can lead to more serious dental problems.

12. Stay Consistent with Your Dental Care Routine

Maintaining good oral hygiene requires consistency. Stick to a daily dental care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Set reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you do not skip any steps in your routine.

13. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can damage your tooth enamel and gums. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to gently clean your teeth and gums without causing any damage.

14. Avoid Brushing Too Hard

Brushing your teeth too hard can also cause damage to your tooth enamel and gums. Use a light, circular motion when brushing your teeth, and avoid pressing too hard.

15. Practice Good Nutrition

A healthy diet is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary and starchy foods, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

16. Maintain Good Overall Health

Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, stress management, and getting enough sleep. Good overall health can contribute to good oral hygiene and vice versa.

17. Wear a Mouthguard During Physical Activities

Physical activities such as sports and outdoor recreation can increase the risk of dental injuries such as chipped or knocked-out teeth. Wear a mouthguard during physical activities to protect your teeth and gums from trauma. Our Lewiston dentist can provide you with a custom-fit mouthguard that offers the best protection for your teeth and gums. Don't forget to wear your mouthguard every time you engage in physical activities, even during summer vacation.

Conclusion

Maintaining good oral hygiene during summertime requires diligence and consistency. Following these tips from Canyon Dental, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent dental problems. Also, remember to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist, brush, and floss regularly, avoid sugary drinks and snacks, and protect your teeth during physical activities. With these tips, you can enjoy a healthy and happy summer season.