Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to spend quality time with your family while enjoying the sunshine, water activities, and delicious summer foods. But amidst all the fun, it's crucial to take extra care of your family's oral health. Summer brings its own unique challenges that can impact your teeth and gums, from sugary drinks and ice creams to dehydration and dry mouths. At Smiles by Hay, we have gathered the top summer oral care tips for the whole family to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong all summer long. Read on to learn more!

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking enough water is essential to keep your mouth hydrated and healthy during the hot summer months. Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, which causes cavities and gum disease. Encourage your family to drink water throughout the day and avoid sugary or acidic beverages that can harm your teeth. If you're spending the day outdoors, bring a water bottle for each family member to sip on.

Wear Mouth Guards When Playing Sports

Summer is a great time to engage in outdoor activities, especially sports. But if your family members play high-impact sports such as football, basketball, or hockey, it's important to consider wearing a mouthguard to protect their mouth from injury. Mouthguards are an inexpensive dental appliance that can prevent chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth.

Avoid Snacking on Sugary Foods

Summer is all about indulging in ice cream, popsicles, and other sugary treats. While it's okay to enjoy them in moderation, try limiting your family's sugary foods and drinks intake. Frequent snacking on sugary foods can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially if you don't brush your teeth after eating. Instead of sugary treats, opt for healthy snacks such as fruits, veggies, and nuts, which are good for your teeth and overall health.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Summer vacations and activities can disrupt your family's daily routine, including their oral care routine. But it's important to maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout the summer season. To ensure a healthy smile, it is important to remind your kids to brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day to effectively remove plaque and food particles that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. If you're traveling, make sure to pack your toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss.

Schedule a Dental Checkup

Finally, summer is an excellent time to schedule your family's dental checkups and cleanings. Regular dental visits can help detect any oral health issues and prevent them from worsening. Plus, dental cleanings can remove stubborn plaque and tartar that can harm your teeth and gums. If you're due for a dental checkup, call Smiles by Hay to schedule an appointment for your family.

Contact Us Today!

Summer is a time to enjoy the sun, fun, and quality time with your family. But it's also important to prioritize your family's oral health and take extra care of their teeth and gums. By following these summer oral care tips, your family can maintain healthy, beautiful smiles all year long. Remember to visit us at Smiles by Hay to maintain your oral health, practice good oral hygiene, drink plenty of water, limit sugary snacks, and wear mouthguards when playing sports. Your teeth will thank you!