Summer: the perfect time for beach trips and barbecues and an opportune time to reassess your oral care routine. The warm weather and long days can mean changes in eating habits, outdoor activities and even our hydration levels, all of which can impact our dental health. Here are some essential summer dental tips to keep your smile bright and healthy while you enjoy the sunshine and outdoor fun.

Stay hydrated with water

During the summer, our bodies tend to lose more fluids and require replenishing more often. While the beverage options you can consume are endless, water is a great choice for the body and your oral health.

Water is excellent at washing away leftover food and diluting acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. In essence, drinking water can help prevent tooth decay!

Consuming water not only ensures your body remains hydrated, but it also aids in the consistent production of saliva. Saliva is your mouth's first defense against tooth decay as it carries traces of calcium and phosphate ions that help restore enamel to protect your teeth from erosion.

And, unlike many beverages such as soda or juice, water contains no sugar that can be broken down into acid, wearing away your enamel.

Protect your lips

Our lips have thinner and more fragile skin compared to the rest of our body, which makes them particularly prone to damage from the sun's strong UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun without proper protection can lead to dry, chapped lips or even more serious conditions like actinic cheilitis, a precancerous condition characterized by inflammation and rough patches on the lips.

Moreover, sunburnt lips can be quite painful and can lead to cold sores in individuals who are prone to them.

So, make sure to consistently use a lip balm with SPF protection during the summer months. Not only does it keep your lips moisturized, but it also provides a protective barrier against harmful UV radiation, helping to maintain the health and appearance of your lips.

Maintain a healthy diet

Summer is a season of sugary temptations like ice creams and candies and acidic refreshments like wine and lemonade. Consuming these in excess can lead to tooth decay as the bacteria in your mouth turns the sugary and acidic treats in your mouth into harmful acids that erode your tooth enamel. You can mitigate this risk by choosing healthier options such as fresh fruits, vegetables or beverages without added sugars.

Opt for healthy foods that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals to fortify your teeth and gums. For instance, calcium-rich foods like dairy products can help strengthen your teeth enamel while vitamin C from fruits can support healthy gums.

Wear a mouthguard

Summer is a time when people often engage in physical activities like basketball, soccer, skateboarding or even swimming that could result in accidental hits or falls. A mouthguard acts as a protective shield for your teeth, lips, tongue and jaw against potential injuries.

This can avert issues such as chipped or broken teeth, nerve injury to a tooth or even the loss of a tooth. Moreover, for individuals with braces or other orthodontic devices, a mouthguard is particularly important as a blow to the face can cause damage to these appliances, leading to cuts and abrasions in the mouth.

Wearing a mouthguard while participating in summer sports or recreational activities is a simple preventative measure that can save you from painful and costly oral injuries.

Don't forget to brush and floss regularly

The allure of vacations, late nights and a break from routine can sometimes disrupt our dental hygiene habits.

However, if regular hygiene practices are neglected, bacterial plaque accumulates. If it isn’t removed regularly, this plaque can cause gum inflammation and bleeding, which results in gum disease and tooth decay.

Additionally, summer diets often include sugary treats like ice cream, popsicles and soft drinks, which can increase the risk of cavities. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily ensures that food particles and sugars are removed from your teeth, reducing the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.



Regular brushing and flossing also help keep your breath fresh and your teeth bright by preventing staining from foods and drinks.

Summer or otherwise, maintaining good oral hygiene practices is key to preserving your oral health.

Schedule an appointment to see us

Summer is a busy time but seeing us regularly helps to keep your smile bright and healthy. Scheduling is easy! Call or text us at (760) 489-5545. We look forward to seeing you soon.