3 Ways Summer Fun Can Damage Your Teeth

For a lot of people, summer means fun activities and treats in the warm sun. However, if you’re not careful, some of your favorite traditional summer pastimes can actually do your smile more harm than good. Fortunately, half the battle is knowing, and soon you’ll be able to safely enjoy the warmer months and protect your oral health! Here are 3 ways summer fun can damage your teeth and some tips to keep your mouth safe.

#1. Too Many Sweet Treats!

When you think about beating the summer heat, ice cream comes to mind. Although tasty and refreshing, cold and sweet foods and drinks can have a negative impact on your oral health. Consumption of too many sugary desserts or beverages can lead to tooth decay and enamel erosion, which can cause tooth sensitivity from cavities or exposed roots. If your teeth are sensitive to temperature, eating your favorite treats can feel really uncomfortable.

The key to enjoying your summer fun is moderation. If you can’t resist the temptation, try to minimize the contact these sugary treats have with your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterwards. If you struggle with sensitivity, consider swapping to a toothpaste made for people with sensitive teeth.

#2. Being a Frequent Flyer at the Pool

Swimming is another great way to stay cool in the summer. However, chlorine can actually damage your smile. If you’re swimming in chlorinated water every day, you should take precautions for your dental health. Prolonged exposure to improperly chlorinated pool water can lead to enamel erosion and tooth damage.

In order to protect your teeth, here are some things you can do so you can preserve both your summer fun and your smile:

• Swim less than 6 hours a week.
• If you’re swimming outdoors, use sunscreen and SPF30+ lip balm frequently.
• Keep your mouth closed as often as you can while swimming.
• Rinse your mouth out with water after swimming.

#3. Playing Rough Without a Mouthguard

If you participate in any physical activities or contact sports during the summertime, taking an extra step to protect your teeth goes a long way. Sports like basketball, swimming, and soccer might be fun with family and friends, but they actually increase your chances of injuring your teeth, gums, and mouth.

Wearing a mouthguard is a simple way to minimize sports-related mouth injuries and protect your smile. They can be found at the store, but seeing your dentist for a custom-fit mouthguard can provide security and comfort.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, our team is full of specialists from all branches of dentistry and is committed to providing quality dental care at your comfort and convenience. We are located in Dallas, Arlington, Mesquite, Fort Worth, Grapevine, and Duncanville. If you’re looking for a dentist to protect your teeth this summer, you can reach the Bear Creek Family Dentistry team through our website or call one of our 12 convenient locations.