Summer has arrived! While this is a unique time we find ourselves in, the desire to get outside, enjoy the sun, and spend quality time together is still a must that does not have to be sacrificed. As a leading Marietta family dentist, we promote the benefits of healthy living for the families that visit us. Good oral health, exercise and a nutritious diet are all linked, and each factor should be given adequate attention – even during the warm summer months when we all want to be outside.
We understand that oral hygiene can easily fall to the back burner when in competition with playing outside. We’ve compiled some of the best tips on how to enjoy your summer, but not lose ground on your oral health!
Keep Up With Healthy Dental Habits
What schedule? We know that summer is the time to say “yes” to staying up later and having that extra popsicle. You don’t have to sacrifice fun in order to take care of your teeth!
In order to stay on track with your oral health, a quick and easy way to take care of yourself is by maintaining healthy habits. The dental habits that we’ve created during the year can be sustained through routine and consistency. Below are some habits to keep in mind with your day-to-day activities.
- Floss Regularly – Aim to floss at least once a day. Brushing your teeth is important, but flossing can help get any plaque or trapped food and bacteria out of the nooks and crannies of your teeth, which could lead to decay.
- Drink Water – Having a soda every now and then is understandable. It’s okay to treat yourself! However, drinking water will not only help you stay hydrated in warmer weather, but it will also help maintain your oral health. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day!
- Use a Mouthwash – A mouthwash can be a wonderful addition to your every day, oral health regime. Using mouthwash will help clean your teeth and gums while also killing bacteria. Many types of mouthwash contain fluoride which will pack the extra punch of protection.
- Healthy Snacks – Summer is a time when all of us indulge a little more than usual. An easy way to sustain oral health is by having healthy snacks readily available. Snack on baby carrots and apples, and minimize your sugar intake. Sugar can linger and cause decay over time.
Prevention Is Your Best Defense for Dental Health
Prevention is truly your best defense and can set you up for long-term health and success. Keep up with regular brushing in the morning and evening. Bonus points for brushing after each meal!
While the kids are out of school, make sure to schedule their routine dental cleaning. Providers recommend two cleanings a year and X-rays at least once a year.
Having an established dentist and practice you trust will make it much smoother to call and schedule these appointments so that you don’t have to worry about taking too much time away from family and fun.
How Can Shining Smiles Family Dentistry Help?
Dr. Shaila Mohip-Chahwala and the team at Shining Smiles Family Dentistry are happy to serve the community of Marietta, Georgia. Shining Smiles is committed to providing the best care possible. You and your family’s oral health is important and by utilizing these tips for a safe and healthy summer, your smile will be protected and “shining” long after pool time is over. Don’t let the summer months fly by without scheduling a visit.
Trusted Family Dentistry in Marietta
At Shining Smiles Family Dentistry, we help families improve their oral health with routine checkups and treatments. Visit our welcoming Marietta dental office for family, restorative and cosmetic services. Call (770) 420-8550 or request a dental appointment today.
Resources:
7 Essential Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
What to do for healthy teeth and gums