5 Easy Ways To Protect Your Smile In The Summertime

5 Easy Ways To Protect Your Smile In The Summertime

5 Easy Ways To Protect Your Smile In The Summertime

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The kids are out of school, the fireworks have been watched and the beach trip is booked, that can only mean one thing, summer is here. Aside from keeping the kids busy and the grass green, your smile should be another concern at the top of your list. Summertime can pose some unique threats to your pearly whites. Here are a few tips to keep your smile safe.

Sunscreen

This poolside staple is incredibly important for your skin, but besides your shoulders, neck and back, your lips need protection too. Lip balm or gloss with SPF protection should be a part of your daily routine. Overexposure to the sun can damage the lips and eventually lead to oral cancer. A minimum SPF rating of 15 is suggested.

Beware of Pool Chemicals

Whether it’s the neighborhood pool, the hot tub at the condo, or your own backyard oasis, you may be unaware that the chemical level can damage your teeth. High levels of chlorine and other chemicals can erode your tooth enamel. On the other hand, the salt water in the gulf can reduce oral bacteria in your mouth. Brushing, flossing and rinsing regularly can limit any damage swimming may cause.

Remember the Most Important Meal of the Day

Different and busy schedules during the summer months can make breakfast a simple casualty. Remember, skipping this meal can set off a chain reaction that leads to increased snacking, sometimes on less than healthy items. Even if you opt for fruit, citrus, which is high in sugar and acid, can be as bad as sugary, unhealthy snacks.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Anyone who has spent more than 5 minutes in south Louisiana in July understands exactly what humidity is. Not only is hydration important for the health of your entire body, but it also helps to prevent tooth decay. Drinking water and remaining steadily hydrated throughout the day is a perfect way to keep your oral tissue saturated and teeth clean. However, just as with snacking, there are good decisions and bad decision on drink choices. Lemonade, a summertime tradition, is high in sugar and acid and can increase tooth decay and dry mouth.

While these are only a handful of tips that can keep your smile safe all summer, they are good reminders of helpful dental habits for the whole year. Of course the best dental habit is to visit your dentist for regular cleanings. While you’re at the dentist, wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere? There is one dental office in Baton Rouge that offers exactly that, Dr. Russo’s Smile Spa. To make an online appointment and learn more, click here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]