Woman smiling on the beach

The time that you have been waiting for all year is finally here! Summertime is just about to get started! The kids will no longer be in the classroom, the days are getting longer, and the weather is becoming warmer. There are all sorts of fun things that you have planned for the summer. Whether you’re going on a family vacation to the beach, or you are just going to hang out by the pool, you’re in for an exciting season. However, not all summer activities are beneficial for your smile. Continue reading to learn about some you should be avoiding to protect your oral health.

Cold Refreshments

Now that it is getting hotter outside, you have the urge to drink more liquids in order to keep cool. Your shopping list will include things like lemonade, sweet tea, and soda. You might even like frozen beverages like a frozen margarita or pina colada on the weekend after the end of a long week at work. The issue is that these types of drinks contain lots of sugar that the bacteria in your mouth feed off. Water is the best thing for you to drink. If you want to have something else, you should rinse your mouth out with water afterwards.

Frozen Treats

If you don’t already enjoy them year-round, summer is the perfect time to have popsicles, slushies, and ice cream in the freezer so you can cool off. However, colder treats can cause you to experience pain if you have more sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity can be cause by a variety of thing, including cavities, fractures, or exposed tooth roots. In order to prevent these issues, be sure that you are always using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently. Avoid foods and drinks that are highly acidic because they also increase sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, mention it to your dentist so you can come up with a solution.

Outdoor Activities

It’s crucial for your health that you spend time in the sun and staying active. During the summer months, outdoor sports are a great way to do this. However, they put you at risk for dental injuries. Ask your dentist about custom-made mouthguards so you can keep your smile safe while you’re on the field.

Swimming Pools

Do you like to swim in your pool or the local neighborhood pool? Improper pH levels can damage your tooth enamel. Check your pool’s pH levels with test strips to ensure that they are between 7.2 and 7.8.

You don’t want to spend the summer getting dental work done. By taking precautions, you can keep your smile safe in the coming months!

About the Practice

At Lakeview Family Dental, there is a team of outstanding clinical professionals with unique strengths and disciplines. Because of their combined knowledge and skills, you can get pretty much anything you need from one of their two convenient locations. For more information or to schedule an appointment in West Bloomfield Township, visit their website or call (248) 363-3304.