Dental Dialogues – Oral Hygiene Tips for the Summer

Summer is no doubt the most eventful season of the year. With vacations, great weather, multiple outdoor activities in the city and pool parties, it can get so busy that we tend to forget the small things that play a massive role in our health. While you may be busy soaking in that sun, it is essential not to forget about your teeth! Here are some tips for caring for your oral hygiene during the summer:

 

Stay in routine

It’s essential for kids and parents to consistently be in a routine and not forget to floss every night and brush in the morning and before bed. Whether your kids are staying up late for a fun evening ball game or looking at the Super-moon that’s visible this month, with you, don’t skip your oral care routine before you go to bed. No matter how busy it may be, make time to brush for 2 minutes with your kids in the morning and at bedtime so that they develop the habit of doing so. Following your routine will also ensure that your kids will be on track for healthy back-to-school visits.

 

Protect that smile!

While it may be tempting to pop open a metal top off of a glass bottle or bite into nuts or seeds to pop them open, you are very likely to end up with a chipped or cracked tooth instead of a cracked nutshell or an open bottle. It is worth your while to look for a nutcracker or a bottle opener, as it may just save you an emergency trip to the dentist! We see many patients that this has happened to, be careful.

 

Wear a mouthguard while playing sports

Who doesn’t love a good game outside during summertime? As you schedule that game in your calendars, always remember to carry and wear your mouthguard. A mouthguard will help protect your lips, jaws, teeth and gums if you fall or get hit in the face. It helps with absorbing/redistributing shock during traumatic jaw closure. It’s worthwhile to purchase one of these if you’re planning to participate in any sports this summer. While your children’s adult teeth are developing you can purchase an over- the-counter guard to adapt at home. For adults who play sports a custom mouthguard is recommended especially for contact sports.

 

Back-to-school appointments

Since most families take some time away from home during the summer, dental appointments also get deprioritized, and families rush to book them just before the start of school. Therefore, it is important to schedule those dental checkups in a timely way before back-to-school in case follow-up appointments are required.

 

If you’re a student at a university or college and live away from the Toronto area, it is vital to get those appointments booked well in advance of your return date so you can have a safe back-to-school and a great academic year!

 

Lastly, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, avoid too many sugary drinks/treats and have a safe and enjoyable summer! To book an appointment at Eglinton Square Dental Centre, call us at 416-752-8222 or email info@eglintonsquaredental.com.