Summer is here! As you head outside to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm temperatures, don’t let a day of fun turn into a dental emergency. Believe it or not, summer can be a bad time for your dental health. You don’t want bad news next time you see your dentist. Here are 4 ways summer can harm your oral health and what you can do to safeguard your smile.
1. Skipping Your Semi-Annual Checkup
Take a break from your summer fun to visit your dentist for your semi-annual cleaning and checkup. Even if you don’t have any current concerns, there can be untreated issues hiding in your mouth, like a cavity or gum disease. A small situation can turn into a big problem if you skip your preventative appointment.
Many dental emergencies result from untreated conditions. A quick cleaning and checkup will ensure your mouth is healthy and your smile looks its best.
2. Playing Sports without a Mouthguard
A friendly game of football or a day of mountain biking can land you in the dentist’s chair if you aren’t wearing an athletic mouthguard. Although you may never expect to need an emergency dentist, 1 in 6 Americans require urgent dental attention annually. Your risk increases significantly if you don’t wear a mouthguard while playing sports or participating in activities that could result in oral injuries. A mouthguard is a simple way to protect your mouth and jaw from injuries.
3. Overindulging in Sugary Treats
Ice cream, slushies, and other cool treats are a staple of summer. Unfortunately, many contain sugar, which can erode your enamel and lead to decay. Even overindulging for a couple of months can leave a lasting mark on your smile. Once your enamel is gone, it won’t grow back.
It’s best to limit how often you have sugar. If you can’t resist something sweet, brush your teeth after you finish.
4. Swimming in Pools
Swimming is a great way to get exercise and stay cool during the warm months. However, slipping on a wet deck or diving into the shallow end of a pool can lead to a dental emergency. It is best to follow cool safety rules to avoid accidents.
You can’t always stop a dental emergency from happening, but you can do many things to reduce your risk. If you need an emergency dentist, do not wait to schedule an appointment.
About Dr. Adi Davidyan
Dr. Davidyan earned his dental degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has completed continuing education to specialize in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. He strives to help each patient achieve their best smile. As a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists, he has qualifications you can trust. Request an appointment online or call (413) 992-3234.