What are your plans for this summer? Whether you want to camp in the wilderness with your family or relax poolside at a posh resort, the last thing you want is for a dental emergency to ruin your fun. While some emergencies are inevitable accidents, most of them can be avoided! This blog post contains six practical tips to keep your smile safe throughout the sunny season.
Get a Dental Checkup
Before your schedule fills with trips and family events, book a routine exam and cleaning. Your dentist can find small cavities, loose restorations, gum irritation, or other issues while they are still in their early stages. Then, you can receive treatment before you take off on vacation or find yourself in the midst of a painful dental emergency.
Enforce Pool Safety
Pool decks can be slick, and rough play near the water can cause chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. Always be sure to walk around the pool instead of running, do not do dives or flips in shallow areas, and be cautious about how you play with other people in the water.
Take Precautions During Summertime Sports
Baseball, soccer, biking, skateboarding, and other warm-weather activities can place teeth at risk. A custom mouthguard offers strong protection, so ask your dentist for one if you or your child plan to play contact sports. You should also be sure to practice environmental awareness so you can avoid fall hazards.
Choose Healthy Snacks and Drinks
Ice cream, soda, sports drinks, and candy may taste refreshing, but sugar and acid can weaken tooth enamel. Try to prioritize healthier options instead, such as water, cheese, nuts, fresh fruit, and crisp vegetables. When you do have a sweet treat, follow it with a glass of water.
Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
Vacations can disrupt your routine, so it can be easy to neglect oral hygiene. Do not let that happen! Be sure to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and other essential tools. Make it your goal to clean your mouth every morning and evening, no matter how busy your vacation schedule is.
Prepare a Dental Emergency Kit
A small dental emergency kit can help you act fast if trouble strikes. Include gauze, a small container with a lid, over-the-counter pain reliever, orthodontic wax, your dentist’s phone number, a small mirror, and sterile gloves.
A safe summer smile starts with simple habits and a little preparation! Take smart steps to protect your teeth and gums as you are enjoying all that the season has to offer.
Meet the Practice
At Northborough Dental Associates, we are happy to provide general and emergency oral health services to our community. We are often able to care for urgent cases on a same-day basis. If you are due for a checkup or would like advice on how to protect your smile this summer, contact our friendly team at 508-571-0358.