Warm weather means more time spent outside with your loved ones, no more school for kids, and plenty of ice cream.  With these changes, it’s important to keep you and your family’s oral health in mind, and the summer may require some extra attention to ensure you keep clear of cavities and other oral health issues. 

In this article, we’ll examine some practical tips hydration that will keep your family’s smiles bright, hydrated, and cavity-free while enjoying the sun this summer.

Tip 1: Staying Hydrated During Summer Activities

One of the most critical things to remember during the hot summer months is to always keep yourself and your family hydrated. Encourage your children to take frequent water breaks when playing outside or spending time at the beach.  This is particularly important if they’re participating in summer sports or other physical outdoor activities.  

Drinking water not only prevents dehydration and heat stroke, but it also washes away excess food particles, prevents plaque buildup, and limits bad breath.  Although it may be tempting, avoid chewing on ice, as this can chip or crack tooth enamel or damage braces, fillings, or other dental hardware. Instead, keep a chilled water bottle for each member of the family on you at all times, and refill frequently. 

Tip 2: Maintain a Consistent Oral Care Routine

With changing schedules and disrupted routines, kids may quickly fall into the habit of not brushing or flossing as often as they did during the school year. 

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, children often follow their parents’ brushing routines, and over 50% of kids don’t brush their teeth twice a day. To help keep all family members in check, set friendly reminders or create family brushing times to ensure it isn’t falling by the wayside.

Regularly check your kids’ brushing techniques to ensure thorough cleaning, especially after eating sticky summer treats like candy or ice cream.  When traveling, ensure you have a travel-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste on hand to maintain oral hygiene on the go. 

Tip 3: Smart Snack and Treat Choices

While kids will likely want to have ice cream non-stop over the summer, it’s important to keep sticky, unhealthy treats and snacks in moderation. Replacing candies and ice pops with healthier options like fruit can be a significant improvement for their oral health.

Limiting snacking frequency and swapping out foods that can get stuck in teeth can reduce bacteria’s opportunity to produce harmful acids. When sweet treats are consumed, brushing and rinsing immediately afterwards is key, as this can help protect against cavities. 

Tip 4: Guarding Teeth During Summer Sports

Summer time could mean outdoor sports such as soccer, football, basketball, skateboarding, or baseball. When participating in these activities, it’s important to ensure you and your children are wearing mouthguards to prevent severe dental injuries. 

Mouthguards can keep teeth protected during collisions, or in instances when other objects (such as the ball) come flying at them at high speeds. This can prevent chipped or knocked out teeth and also protects the gums and jaw. 

Custom-fitted mouthguards are recommended for anyone who participates in regular high-impact activities, as it can provide superior protection and comfort vs. over-the-counter models. 

Be sure to remember to clean and store mouthguards properly to prevent bacterial growth, limit bad breath, and maximize their longevity. 

Tip 5: Wear Sunscreen and Lip Protection

You’re probably already aware that wearing sunscreen is critical when spending a lot of time out in the sun. However, many people overlook the impact the sun can have on oral and lip health. 

Harmful UV rays can affect lips, leading to dryness, cracking, or even long-term damage. In addition to sunblock, consider using lip balm with SPF to shield delicate skin from burning or increased risk of lip cancer. Remind all family members to reapply lip protectants and sunscreen regularly when spending time outside.

Tip 6: Scheduling Back-to-School Dental Visits

Summer is also a great time to schedule dental appointments while the kids are on break from school. Bi-annual cleanings and check-ups can remove plaque and tartar buildup that may have accumulated during the summer and also allow a dentist to check for any signs of more serious oral health issues. 

If your children are prone to cavities, you may also want to consult with your dentist about sealants or fluoride treatments. 

Schedule a Summer Dental Appointment at Ideal Dental

Simple habits like brushing, healthier snacking, and sun protection can make a huge difference during the warmer months. Ensuring both you and your family get into good oral hygiene habits will help you stay protected and limit the cost of complex dental procedures. 

Scheduling a bi-annual checkup during the summer is also a must. When you’re ready to make your family-wide dentists appointments to maintain healthy smiles all summer long, contact your local Ideal Dental today.