Summer is a great time to head outdoors or indulge in sugary treats by the pool. While you make the most of the sunshine and warm weather, you don’t want to unknowingly damage your smile or braces. Believe it or not, several summer activities can lead to an unplanned trip to your orthodontist. You don’t need to miss out on the fun by safeguarding your smile from 3 popular activities to stay out of the dental chair this summer.
1. Frequently Enjoying Cold Treats
Summer wouldn’t be the same without ice cream and popsicles. Although they are a great way to cool down on a hot day, they can lead to a toothache. Sensitive teeth can occur for several reasons, like an untreated cavity, exposed tooth roots, or weakened enamel. No matter the cause, consuming cold treats frequently can increase the occurrence of discomfort. They also contain sugar, which can further weaken your tooth and raise the likeliness of a toothache. In some cases, biting into a cold food can cause a bracket or wire to pop off.
Besides limiting ice cream and other chilly treats, don’t use a hard-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel and gum line. You can also help keep the painful sensations at bay by using a desensitizing toothpaste. If the problem persists, contact your dentist to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
2. Playing Sports without a Mouthguard
You wouldn’t play tackle football without a helmet because it’s a crucial piece of protection, so why head out onto the field without a mouthguard? An athletic mouthguard provides a layer of protection for your teeth, gums, and oral structures if you experience trauma to your face. It will absorb some of the impact to lessen the severity of dental injuries, like broken teeth. If you have braces, it will defend them from damage, so nothing slows your journey to a straight smile. For maximum protection, it’s best to visit your dentist for a mouthguard instead of buying one OTC.
3. Swimming in Highly Chlorinated Water
39% of competitive swimmers have dental enamel erosion. Water in pools and spas contain chlorine to kill harmful pathogens that can make you ill. Unfortunately, it can erode your enamel over time. While you likely don’t swim with your mouth open, exposing your teeth to chlorine levels with a pH above 7.8 can damage your enamel. If you only swim occasionally, you likely don’t have anything to worry about; however, if you’re an avid swimmer, you’ll want to protect your smile by checking the water’s pH level.
Don’t let a dental emergency interrupt your summer plans. A few precautions can help you avoid an oral health issue, so you can make the most of the season’s activities.
About Dr. Sonam Sheth
Dr. Sheth earned her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and went on to complete a Master’s of Science in Oral Biology and Pathology. She has also attained an Advanced Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. If you’re ready to improve your smile, contact our office today.