How Can I Keep My Smile Healthy During Summer Vacation?

Summer vacation is the promised land students work towards throughout the whole school year, but the freedom it brings can lead to dental disaster if you’re not careful. Tooth decay, gum disease, and oral injuries do not go on vacation just because school is out, and some traditional summer activities pose risks to people’s dental health. Here are a few tips from your dentist to help you keep your smile healthy, pretty, and strong.

Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene

While school can certainly be stressful, it also provides a sense of structure that makes it easier for many people to brush, floss, and use antibacterial mouthwash every day. When school’s out, it can be a little too easy for some to fall off of their oral hygiene regimen, leading to unpleasant cavities and gum disease that could have been avoided. Remember to keep up with your oral care during summer vacation to avoid these nasty oral infections.

Wear a Mouthguard When Playing Sports

Playing sports during the summer is a great way to learn teamwork, get exercise, and have fun. Unfortunately, games like soccer, football, baseball, and basketball can lead to serious dental injuries through falls or blows to the face. This is no reason to avoid these games since your dentist can provide you with a customized mouthguard that offers your teeth superior protection. By wearing one of these appliances, you can enjoy your favorite summer games while minimizing the risks of chipped, broken, or dislodged teeth.

Take It Easy on the Ice Cream

While ice cream has been a favored summer treat for generations, it is also sticky and high in sugar that can feed harmful oral bacteria. The accumulation of sugary residue on the teeth due to excessive ice cream consumption can lead to tooth decay and oral infections such as gum disease and cavities. Enjoy your frozen sweet treats in moderation and take care to wash them down with a cool glass of water, as this will help flush the sugar away from your teeth.

Summer vacation is supposed to be a time of fun and relaxation, and dental emergencies such as toothaches and dislodged teeth can ruin anyone’s good time. By taking care to protect your smile while you recreate, you can keep your smile looking great for the next school year and beyond.

About the Author

Dr. Kevin Schrimper earned his dental degree at the University of North Carolina and stays abreast of the latest developments in the dental field through continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society. His office in Rocky Mount, NC, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more tips on keeping your smile safe this summer, contact his office online or dial (252) 937-7878.